You are starting a house renovation project and already know about getting your plans approved by the building, filing the necessary paperwork, and finding alternative housing for you and your family. But is that all there is when talking about a house renovation? Experts don't think so.
Below are experts' insights about things that belong in the pre-renovation to-do list that are often overlooked or that need special attention according to Brick Underground:
Get your hands on the floor plan
For David Przywara of Crafted Home NY, a floor plan is nice to have for a quick reference - although, not every house renovation has one.
Clear out your stuff
Przywara suggests purging your space to "make it easy for the designers to walk through the space and measure." However, there is no need to move heavy items like your A/C unit as "those would be sealed/protected (like any permanent vent in the apartment)," says remodeling consultant Ben Pitt of My Home US.
Play nice with the neighbors
It's always good to send out a standard neighbor letter - regardless if it's included in your building's alteration agreement or not.
"This is a very simple form with the start and estimated length of the project - no apologies necessary for renovating one's own apartment," says Pitt. "I'd also recommend taking photos of adjoining apartments in case there are any damage claims during work - this gives homeowners opportunity to meet neighbors in person and discuss any concerns." But he stressed that this is only an ideal situation that may not always be "necessary or practical" during a house renovation.
"Most buildings require letters to be sent to neighbors. I suggest to my clients that they also send a bottle of wine," says Jeff Reich of Prime Renovations.
Be a material girl (or boy)
"Confirm all materials or that all materials are in the contractor's possession prior to scheduling the actual start date. To start a project with materials coming in one-to-two weeks after the start, even if it's before specific trade work begins, still risks that incorrect or damaged products are shipped and delivered," says Pitt.
Jean Brownhill Lauer, found and CEO of Sweeten recognizes that you often "can't to get your hands on the tile samples and wood cuts... but talk to your contractor about your purchase plans before you order or accept any deliveries so that they can ensure you've got the technical pieces covered. Showpiece orders often require hidden parts, specific spatial leeway, or particular installation packages."
"Be clear with your contractor on which materials you will provide and which materials they will provide and be sure that you both agree that the list is complete before work begins. When material orders and deliveries go even slightly haywire, it can be spectacularly disruptive to the progress, sequence and cost of a home renovations. AND these usually occur -ironically - when individual homeowners are trying to save money by ordering their own materials," Brownhill Lauer says.
