A property renovation is a big project and a challenge for even the most experienced DIYer. DIY enthusiasts love to get stuck into a project, but it is crucial to do the prep work first. This guide will look at four essential things you need to know before beginning your renovation.
Surveying
The best place to start with any project is to outline what work needs doing. A renovation is no different. When looking at a property to renovate, you will need a clear picture of the issue that needs fixing. Coming across unexpected problems, you haven’t planned or budgeted for is one of the quickest ways to ruin any renovation project.
Before any home renovation, commission a building survey from a chartered building surveyor. This will identify the significant issues with the property. It will also offer guidance on any further surveys your property could need, such as an asbestos report. It is vital to gather all the information upfront to get a clear picture of the project. You will need this for planning the works, budgeting and pretty much every other aspect of the project.
Pricing and Budgeting
One of the first things you need to know before beginning a renovation project is how much it will cost. If you don’t know how much money to set aside, you could find yourself halfway through a renovation without the funds to complete the work.
It is also important to have a clear idea of your budget. If your renovation hopes are too ambitious for your budget, it’s best to find out early. Scale back your ambitions (for now) and work to the budget you have. Or, if your budget doesn’t stretch to the essential fixes, find a different project that your wallet can accommodate.
Gathering quotes is a big part of pricing up a project. You will need to know what work you’re hiring for and what you can DIY to do this effectively. The following section will cover this in more detail.
DIY Or Hire A Professional
Many parts of a renovation are off-limits to the DIYer. Experts are needed throughout a renovation for everything from electricals to plumbing. Anything that is primarily decorating is open to most DIYers. If you’re more experienced fitting shelving and cabinets, replacing sinks, countertops and laying carpet are all ok. It is important to remember to know your skillset. If you can do something but a professional could do it better, consider the professional. Deciding between a professional and DIYing is often a budgetary concern. However, if the budget permits, hiring someone can have a noticeable difference depending on your experience.
There is an extensive list of work that should only be carried out by a professional. Often these works pose potential hazards or require specialist knowledge to complete effectively. Many of these works will even require particular qualifications to meet legislative requirements. These works include:
- Electrical works
- Plumbing
- HVAC Installation
- Masonry Work
This list is not exhaustive. However, these categories include many tasks that require a professional.
Health and Safety
Once you’ve decided what work needs doing, you will need to assess the risks. Many home renovation tasks pose safety risks. Its vital to understand these. Hiring professionals for the relevant job is one way to mitigate the risks, but there will still be many that need addressing during your project. Be mindful of all works being carried out, not just the ones you are doing yourself. Ensure you wear the correct PPE when working on a task or when around other work. Always get help where necessary. Even something as simple as lifting materials may require two or more people to perform safely.
Home renovations can be big projects and vary in scope. Whether you are giving your home a new lease of life with some decorating or carrying out a full renovation, bear in mind the four points in this guide. Understanding the required work, who will do it, and how much it will cost are essential for all projects. And health and safety is of the utmost importance in everything from a minor DIY venture to an audacious construction project.
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