A successful renovation starts with a plan
Renovating a home is a process that requires careful consideration and preparation.
The first step is understanding why you are renovating. Are you doing it to improve the value of your home for a quick sale, or are you trying to improve functionality and increase your enjoyment of the home?
If you are renovating to increase value, consider the areas that offer the most payback. These include the kitchen, bathroom, floors, roof, doors and windows.
Find a renovator early so they can guide you through the process. Some projects require you to obtain permits, which is a complex process that can take several months. A professional renovator will know what permits you need.
Many renovations require architectural or design services while others require an engineer. Such services are necessary to obtain building permits and should be factored into your budget. Your renovator will know what services you need and give you a pretty good idea of what the rough costs of the project would be.
When it comes to budgeting, set aside 10 to 15 per cent of the project cost as contingency. Changes during the process are not uncommon and they can impact the cost and timing of the job. Just make sure you and your renovator agree on how potential changes will be handled.
A detailed written contract is vital to a successful renovation and a sign you are working with a real professional. Your contract should clearly outline the scope of work, project timelines, payment schedules, warranties and how to handle any changes. If you don’t sign a contract, chances are you’re not working with a professional and will have no legal recourse should you receive substandard work.
Professional renovators also have legitimate business licenses, are insured and offer warranties on their work. They regularly attend educational seminars and courses to stay ahead of the curve and keep their knowledge and skills up to date. That means they know about any changes to the Building Code or municipal requirements.
Talk to several renovators and interview them before deciding who to work with. Find out what kind of experience they have doing similar work to what you want done. Ask for references and if they are members of a professional association.
Your renovator is your partner in realizing your vision for your project and you need to work with someone who is right for you.
A great resource to find professional renovators, trade contractor or custom builders is renomark.ca. The website includes a searchable database of companies across the GTA who abide by a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. This includes offering a minimum twoyear warranty, having liability insurance and providing a detailed written contract for all work.
Several Renomark renovators will be volunteering at the GTA Home and Reno Show, Feb. 12 to 15 at the International Centre in Mississauga. They will be offering free renovation advice at the Destination Renovation booth, which is BILD’s feature exhibit at the show.
You can buy tickets at gtahomeandrenoshow.com, and use the promo code STAR1-to save $5 off the regular purchase price. Bryan Tuckey is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association and a land-use planner who has worked for municipal, regional and provincial governments. Follow him at twitter.com/bildgta, facebook.com/bildgta, and bildblogs.ca.