Home renovations can be time-consuming, expensive and stressful because you can’t always know what to expect. There’s always a possibility that something will go wrong and that you’ll end up spending a fortune. However, although you can never eliminate certain risks that a home renovation brings, you can try to be as prepared as possible.

Words: Mike Johnston

Have a detailed and efficient plan
Before you set things in motion, you should come up with a remodelling plan. It should be detailed and thought through, outlining all the renovation stages, important deadlines and necessary materials. This plan will help your stay organised throughout this process and help you conduct an efficient renovation.

Set up a realistic budget
Having a budget is crucial for your renovation if you want to control your expenses. Of course, you can never know exactly how much you’ll spend because there are always some unexpected costs. However, you should estimate your expenses and allocate a certain amount to emergency situations. Typically, around 20 per cent should be set aside for unexpected costs.

Hire an experienced team
You should hire experienced and highly trained contractors who will help you conduct a successful renovation. Unless you yourself are experienced at home remodelling, you’ll definitely need help to ensure that everything goes according to plan. You should interview contractors and check their references to make sure that you’ve hired the right people for the job.

Check the relevant codes and regulations
Before starting your home remodel, you should inform yourself about whether there are certain codes and regulations you need to follow. You may need to apply for particular licences, which can require even several months depending on the type of your renovation. By informing yourself in advance, you’ll have enough time to get your documentation in order and avoid unnecessary delays.

Establish a routine
Once your renovation starts, it’s important that you establish a certain routine that will help you and your contractors be more efficient and organised. You should agree on a specific timeline in advance and try to follow your joint schedule. Of course, your contractors will have their own routines and methods that help them get the job done. However, you can discuss how many breaks throughout the day they’ll need and some other issues that may affect your schedules.

Rent moving trucks on time
Along with renovation come dust and trash, so you might have to remove your furniture during the remodelling process. Your contractors may also need more space to work and your items might get in their way. Moving your belongings to a storage unit can speed things up, enabling your contractors to move around easily and not to worry about damaging your furniture.

However, since you won’t be able to move everything in your car and waste your time going back and forth, hiring moving trucks may be a more functional and time-saving solution. For instance, the reputable Budget truck rental company provides its clients with special offers that allow them to reduce their expenses. Thus, you should research your options and find a rental company that will fit into your budget. In addition, you’ll also have your peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe. 

Inform your neighbours
Unless you want your neighbours to complain and interrupt your renovation, you should definitely let them know about the upcoming noise. If you inform them and apologise in advance, they will have more understanding. In addition, you should try not to disturb the neighbourhood in the evening and try to complete your work for the day before eight p.m.

Pay attention to electricity and plumbing
When remodelling your home, certain unexpected problems may arise. In particular, you should pay special attention to your electrical installations and plumbing and be ready to deal with any emergencies that might occur. If you have broken or damaged pipes, there’s a risk of them bursting and causing a flood. In such a case, you should have contact information of an experienced plumber who can deal with this issue quickly. The same goes for electrical issues – be ready to react as soon as they occur. Of course, you should also have an emergency fund for such problems.

Avoid structural changes
The more complex a home renovation is, the more expensive and time-consuming it will be. Therefore, you should definitely consider avoiding any major structural changes and upgrades. Aside from requiring a lot of work and money, they can also get out of hand easily, which will leave you with additional expenses and major delays. If possible, you should renovate your home without tearing down your indoor walls or making similar changes.

A home renovation brings numerous challenges, but if you take some time to prepare, hire reliable contractors and have everything organised in advance, you’re more likely to conduct a successful remodel.