5 things to consider when renovating your home
When renovating your home there are so many decisions to make, and things to consider. From planning to safety and budgets, it’s best to start a project off right with a thorough plan. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the things you should consider when starting a home reno project.
Everything you need to know about planning a home renovation
1. Project length
You’ll need to know how long your project is going to take. Whether it’s a smaller job such as a kitchen renovation, or something bigger like structural work, you need to make a plan. Consider what the weather will be doing at the time of year all the work is going on for.
For example in very cold weather the ground might be difficult to dig for foundation work. In our experience, projects can take a bit longer than initially planned so do add this into you contingency if possible.
2. Safety
Health and safety should be of the utmost importance on any job. When we spoke to Kent’s #1 Rated Scaffolding Company Blitz Scaffolding, they explained that almost every job on the roof requires scaffolding. Safety should never be something you scrimp on on any construction job. Talk to your site manager if you are in any doubt and make sure you do your research beforehand.
3. Planning and legal
Always apply for planning permission with the relevant organisations, if you need it. In Kent you need to contact your Local Planning Authority (LPA). You need planning permission if you:
- build something new
- make a major change to your building, such as building an extension
- change the use of your building
If you are putting in new windows and/or doors, you’ll need a FENSA certificate to show they comply with building regulations. When putting in windows you should also consider if you need scaffolding.
4. Money, money, money
Make sure you have a budget for any project, big or small. You’ll need to factor in the building work, planning applications, architects – and always have a contingency fund for when unforeseen costs come up.
Whether you are hoping to unleash your creative side and do lots of the design elements yourself, or perhaps you are good at tiling, there may be ways to save money, but having a stringent plan from the beginning is essential.
6. Find a team you trust
Always look for personal recommendations on the people carrying out work on your home. Ask tradespeople if you can go and look at projects they’ve previously worked for. And ask people you trust for recommendations – local Facebook groups are great for tips, but can you really trust the people are genuine on there and have the same standards and budgets as you?
We hope you found this post useful? With careful planning and lots of common sense, your renovations should go really well. Just do your research beforehand and go with your gut instinct too.
Plenty of patience is required and don’t be afraid to get advice from friends and family too. I find magazines can be inspiring too! Good luck with it all and let us know how it goes?
