Things to Consider As You Start a Renovation
When you are about to start a big renovation, you are no doubt excited about transforming your space into the home of your dreams. But, there are a few practical things to consider as you ramp up to your start date to set yourself up for success as the project progresses.
Contingency plans are a good thing:
No contractor sets out hoping that they will find unexpected surprises behind the walls. However, these things often do happen on renovation projects. As such, I always recommend that clients plan on a contingency fund of up to 10% to cover the potential unknown before the work begins. This way, you know you have some padding should you need it (or want it because you want to change your mind on something) and are not scrambling to organize the funds if necessary. Dealing with these additions last minute only slows down the process and adds to your stress.
Ensure a buffer with your temporary living arrangements:
If you have moved out to allow for your renovation, make sure you plan for a little grace period in your rental agreement at the end of the expected project timeline in case the renovation goes over the expected schedule. It’s better having some time left on your temporary lease than having to scramble to find a new rental and move again in order to cover the few weeks your renovation goes over the expected schedule.
Your insurance needs will change:
Major home renovations are not covered under regular home insurance. While your premiums may go up for the course of the renovation, it is best to be up-front with your insurance company and let them know what you are undertaking so they can adjust your coverage to suit your new needs. Your contractor will likely have to provide your insurance company with proof of their insurance, too.
Not all storage is created equal:
Often when you start a renovation, you have to move items to get them out of the way or to protect them from getting damaged. Many times you cannot take all of these items with you if you move into a temporary residence, but you might want or need access to your items while you are moved out.
A storage cube in your backyard is great if your renovation only lasts the summer, and your items do not need to be temperature and humidity-controlled. However, it is not that easy to access your items safely from a storage cube under 40cm of snow.
You could also elect to get your movers to store your items for you. However, most movers will not allow you access to your items while they are in their care as it creates potential insurance risks and logistical challenges for them.
Your best solution may be a temperature-controlled storage unit where you can have drive-up access. There are many of these around larger urban centers. For an additional fee, many will also provide you with extra insurance coverage should you have things of significant value to store with them.
Good fences make good neighbours…except when you are renovating:
Get all of your ducks in a row to begin your renovation but make sure to give your neighbours some warning about the work that is about to unfold. You don’t have to provide every gory detail but giving a general overview of the work involved and timelines is the decent thing to do.
Having your immediate neighbours on board with your plans will also assist you in getting larger changes you are proposing passed with the city building department. If you need to get special approval to build bigger or higher, the building department will appreciate knowing that your immediate neighbours do not feel negatively impacted by your plans, making the city a bit more likely to give you the special approvals you require.
It’s a great time to take the next step, call Beth to get started! You can also have a look at some of Beth’s other design posts, here.
