If you are planning serious work to improve your living space, aside from the high cost, there are other things to take into account, which we tackle in this short blog. Life will be completely overturned when a team of builders march into your home, and you need the right preparation to minimise the inconvenience.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Living conditions – Are you and your family able to remain in the home while the work is done? More often than not, moving out is not required. You might have to vacate a few rooms, move furniture and cover floors, but that is not an issue. If the renovation includes roofing, make sure you have a plan for rain, and have a tarp to cover any open exterior walls. Losing the kitchen can cause havoc; set up a temporary outdoor kitchen and improvise.
- Storage space – Find affordable local moving and storage services, and you can move what you need to without worry. You can’t leave valuable items out in the open, and with a secure storage unit that has climate control, your precious possessions will be fine.
- Project duration – Does the project run into the cold winter months, and how will that impact our lives? These are things to consider when planning major renovations at home. It is wise to include a penalty clause in the contract that motivates the builder to finish on schedule. Furniture design tips can be found here.
- Inconvenience to neighbours – Of course, you want to maintain that excellent relationship you have with those around you. Good neighbours watch out when we are not at home, and everyone helps when they can. If there will be noise and trucks coming and going, it’s best to let everyone know; you could post on a social media group or visit each house for a short chat.
- Weather protection – If required, it should be on hand from day 1. A builder would have his own tarpaulins used to protect interiors, which is a must for every contractor. Materials must be adequately protected against the elements.
- Choosing a contractor – Word of mouth recommendations ensure satisfaction, so do ask local homeowners who they used, and this short provides you with a sound builder. It would be nice to see a previous project or a few before-and-after photos that clearly show the workmanship. Someone established would have all the resources to ensure that the work is completed on time.
- Hire a skip – If the builder doesn’t do this, you should, and a covered skip is best in built-up areas. A small skip would probably suffice.
Carrying out major improvements will certainly add value to the property, not to mention the added comfort for you and your family. Plan things correctly, and there will be no major issues, and before you know it, the builders will have gone!
