Renovation Challenges
11/18/2011 
10 Hot Design tips to turn renovation problems around
 
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Murphy’s Law states “anything that can go wrong will go wrong.” In the building industry, particularly where renovations are concerned this adage is often true. This article addresses how you can turn problems around or better still not have a problem in the first place. Remember, it is often not the problem itself but how you deal with it that counts. Several things can help you deal with a problem.
 
Renovation tips
 
  • Preplanning – wherever possible supply detailed plans to the trades you are getting to quote so that they can make an informed assessment of any previous or existing work done. This gives them a starting point of what to expect however, be aware that sometimes this can be supplied but once things are uncovered in walls and floors they may not be as shown in the original plan which may result in added expense. Always allow a buffer zone for quotations to cater for just such a problem. I would suggest 10% would cover most things.
 
  • Availability – if you are ordering your own parts for the job and the job needs to be finished in a short time frame, make sure that your selections at your chosen supplier are available. This applies to things such as tap fittings, light fittings, fabrics, tiles and a whole myriad of choices. Remember if a product is discontinued then make sure there is more than enough to do the job. Fittings can come reasonably quickly from the eastern states if they are available but if they are coming from overseas that is a different kettle of fish!
 
  • Correct technical information – make sure your trades have all the correct specification information for your design selections and that what is chosen is appropriate for the situation. Remember sometimes items can not be used in a retrofit situation.
 
  • Parts – double check that all the correct pieces are supplied. There is nothing more frustrating than when a tradesman is onsite to install parts and they are not all in the packaging.
 
 
  • Quality – wherever possible select the best quality fittings that the budget can afford to get the best possible result. This may require some research initially but is well worth the effort. Use the web for design ideas and go to specialist shops to get a feel of the products you like or even keep a scrapbook of pictures that show what you like.
 
  • Nip problems in the bud early – if a problem with a renovation does arise early on then address it right away or it can very soon get out of hand later down the track. This will always add more expense. Explore all the possible solutions to the situation and work with the one that has the best outcome for all the parties concerned. This may involve compromise for everyone. If the problem becomes heated then step away from it and give yourself some time out so it can be dealt with in a calm manner.
 
 
  • Communication – keep the communication channels open at every stage of the renovation. Make yourself available to the trades if needed and if you can’t be available then use someone that can act for you. Make sure that the trades people you are dealing with know this person has your authority to make decisions on your behalf.
 
  • Documentation – keep all quotes, selections, conversations in hard copy in case you need to refer to it later on. Do not rely on memory! Make sure that any conversations you have with your trades are confirmed by email so that there is no room for any misunderstandings. A good idea for your sanity is to keep a diary of who, what and how in note form so you will always have a ready to use record if required.
 
 
  • Patience – renovations are messy, noisy and often inconvenient. Do not undertake them unless you have lots of patience, energy and good reliable trade’s people. When done well, renovations normally add value to the home, give it a face lift and can be very rewarding.
 
  • Budget – make sure you have a set budget in mind. Be aware that if issues do arise then time frames can be extended out and the budget can blow out. Have a figure in mind and then allow 10% on top of that figure for things that may go wrong. If things go to plan then it is a nice surprise to have at the end. If you are doing a renovation to sell a home then make sure you have had a property evaluation done first to make sure that you are not over capitalizing on the property.
 
For all sorts of reasons, often beyond your control, renovations do not always go to plan. Having the right preparation before undergoing the process can often make it less stressful and more rewarding for all concerned. Contact Kate for your interior design needs.