Do you have ambitious plans for your home? Maybe a new floor, kitchen extension, or even an attic conversation? A major home renovation adds huge financial value to a house, but can also come with hidden complications. Here are five things you should consider with a major home renovation.
Make Sure You Have Planning Permission
Some of the more sparsely populated states in the US might not require certain planning permissions. However, many states have building codes which you need to adhere to. Check the regulations in your state for extending property and the number of floors in your home. If you have property abroad, check local planning permission before embarking on your home renovation.
If you have embarked on renovations which do require planning permission, you may be able to file a retrospective application. If this is denied, you may need to physically remove the extension – so it’s important to research this beforehand.
Consider A Formed Steel Deck For New Floors
A formed steel deck is a sheet of extremely durable galvanized steel, upon which you can rest a concrete slab. It allows for the building of multiple floors in constructions where weight is an issue, it is difficult to access the site, or where cost is a factor. Formed steel is molded into corrugated strips for increased durability. Formed steel decks are easier to construct and recycle, and are also less combustible than other construction types.
Inform Your Neighbors
If you are embarking on a major home renovation project that will likely take months to complete, inform your nearby neighbors. It is better that they know rather than having them complain to you when your home renovation comes as a complete surprise. Remember to keep to sociable hours according to the noise laws in your area too. If you are embarking on a renovation, it is likely you’d like to stay in the area for a longer time, so getting on with your neighbors might be important.
Be Prepared For Unforeseen Costs
In any home renovation project, you should have a sinking fund for additional costs. You might uncover damp under the floor, or a cracked pipe. There are any number of things that could jeopardize a home renovation. A contingency fund should be an additional 15% on top of your budget, designed to protect you from getting into debt for additional issues further down the line.
Take The Time To Find Decent Tradespeople
Good contractors are hard to find. Take the time to source personal recommendations from friends and family, or look on Google Reviews and any local comparison sites to see who has the best reviews. Steer clear of any that took additional time or ran over the original renovation plans or budget. If you are already embarking on major renovation works, the last thing you want is a contractor with a history of running over time.
Conclusion
Before you begin a major home renovation, establish a sinking fund and take the time to invest in decent tradespeople. Keep your neighbors updated of the estimated renovation timeframes, and research your planning permissions beforehand. Finally, research ways of implementing cost-effect renovation methods like steel formed decks to make the most of your budget.
