How to Plan an Apartment Renovation
Renovating your apartment is a great opportunity to add value and customize your space. With careful planning and a good team on your side, it is possible to create a beautiful home that matches your vision and lifestyle.
Unlike a standalone house, your neighbours are probably living very close by and will be affected by the renovation works. Keeping them informed and onside will go a long way to avoiding any issues.
Budget
A budget is the foundation of any renovation. The amount of money that is available to do a project determines which parts can be addressed and the quality of the work done.
It’s important to think about how the renovation will impact your current finances, especially if you are renovating a co-op or condo apartment. It’s also a good idea to make sure you set a savings goal and stick with it!
Unexpected costs and hiccups are inevitable, and they can add up. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a contingency budget of 5-10% of your overall renovation cost.
It’s also important to know how long the project will take and if you’ll need to stay somewhere else during construction. For instance, if you’re refinishing or replacing floors, you may need to vacate for one or two weeks. apartment renovation This could add up to a few hundred dollars in temporary housing fees.
Design
Apartment renovations can transform old, dated apartments into highly desirable properties that command top rent prices. New features such as stainless steel appliances and granite counters can entice tenants to sign on the dotted line.
Knocking down interior walls to enlarge space can make an apartment feel more open and airy. Raising ceilings is a great way to visually enhance rooms, especially when the existing floor height is low and can make people feel claustrophobic.
It’s always best to consult with a qualified architect or designer, as they will be able to help you with the design and engineering of your project. It is also crucial to check with your Body Corporate to ensure your renovation work complies with their strata By-Laws. This can sometimes be a lengthy process but it is necessary to protect yourself and your investment. They will often ask to see detailed drawings and a schedule of fixtures and finishes to be approved before your work begins.
Structural Changes
When renovating an apartment, structural changes need to be done in accordance with building codes. It’s best to hire professional builders who know local regulations and can help you obtain a permit if required. Structural changes that are not carried out correctly can result in foundation and roof damage, wall cracks, door problems and even collapse.
Install new flooring materials like tiles and hardwood that align with your design hotel renovation general contractors preferences and functional requirements. Paint and other wall treatments can also add visual appeal and create the desired ambiance.
Since apartment buildings are typically more confined, you may need to work around restrictions on noise and access for contractors and delivery vehicles. Establishing a designated working timeframe with your contractor can minimise disruptions and inconvenience to neighbors. Schedule a walk-through and inspection with your contractor after major renovations are complete to ensure the completed work meets your expectations and complies with agreed upon design plans.
Electrical & Plumbing
If your apartment renovation will include any new plumbing or electrical installations, these are usually done during the “rough-in” phase after the framing has been constructed. Typically, this will involve the plumbing, heating and cooling technicians running rough fixtures and venting before the walls are closed in with drywall and inspected by a building inspector.
Some homeowners choose to renovate their apartments as an investment, hoping that they will increase in value over time. Others choose to make upgrades that will make their home more comfortable for themselves, such as installing a new bathroom or kitchen.
If you live in a condominium or co-op, you will need to get your project approved by the board and management. This can be a quick and easy process or it may take longer depending on the scope of work and your specific building. You will need to review the Strata By-Laws carefully to determine what you can and cannot do.
Punch List
When you’ve reached a point where you think your project is ready to be turned over to you, the contractor will conduct what is called a “punch list walkthrough.” It involves double checking to ensure that all tasks included in the construction contract have been completed and that there are no other outstanding issues.
A punch list includes items such as incorrect installations, incidental damage to existing materials or structures, and missing components. It is generally performed by the general contractor and any subcontractors that may be working on the project.
Following punch list best practices can help you reach a zero punch list goal and close out your renovation on time. It requires effective communication between all project stakeholders, including the general contractor, the architect, and the site owner. Using construction project management software with photos and videos is an excellent way to facilitate this process.
