What Loughlan learnt

1. Always get a full structural survey done before you commit.

2. Have a contingency fund of at least 40 per cent of your budget.

3. Triple-check contractors’ references to ensure their reliability.

4. Take out adequate insurance in reference to contractors to ensure you are covered if anything does go wrong.

5. Employ a project manager if you can’t be on site at all times, and if you’re doing a project of this magnitude.