Are you dreaming of a home renovation but don’t know where to start? Planning for a home renovation can be both exciting and daunting. With careful preparation, however, the process will run smoother and help ensure that your project is successful.
There are several important steps to take when planning for a home renovation. It’s vital to consider how these changes may affect your current home insurance policy and what your local building codes and home or property owners association require. Here are the tips you need to plan for a successful home renovation!
Budget and Timeline
Starting a home renovation project can be intimidating, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed if you don’t break down your plans into manageable steps.
One of the most important steps is setting a budget and timeframe for your project so that it’s feasible. This will help you keep track of what you can realistically do with the resources you have available to you.
With this groundwork in place, you’ll have an ideal starting point to maximize the potential of your renovation – whether large or small – and bring your vision to life!
Be Aware of Permits and Inspections Needed
When it comes to renovations, it’s essential to be aware of which permits are necessary from local authorities and what inspections will need to take place.
Thankfully, with a bit of research, you’ll find out everything you need to know so that your renovation runs smoothly. You can work with your contractors to get the permits and inspections when needed. This lets you rest assured that everything is being done as it should be!
Remember that any alterations you make to your home may affect your home insurance. If you are building an addition, you’ll want to consider talking with an agent about your home’s new cost to replace. Also, if your renovations are not done correctly and are found to be the reason why you now have damage and file a claim, your home insurance may deny your claim if the work was not done properly. This is one good reason to always use a licensed contractor for some jobs.
It may be a good idea to contact a company like Freeway Insurance to compare rates and find the right homeowner’s coverage for your needs.
Find the Right Contractor
Hiring contractors can be intimidating, especially if you don’t do it often. Contractors are one of those things that can provide a great benefit when done right, but when done wrong, you could be left feeling frustrated and put out. It’s worth taking some extra time to research any potential contractors.
Here’s what to look for or consider:
- Select a licensed contractor.
- Look online for reviews and check the Better Business Bureau for complaints.
- If your friends and neighbors have been happy with their recent renovation, ask for recommendations.
- Research litigation involving the contractor and/or the company.
- Don’t pay large down payments, and ensure completion-based payments are in the contract.
- Ensure the contractor you talk to is the one who will do the work — companies often reassign contractors and you may not get the qualified person you thought you would.
Once you’ve hired a contractor, keep an eye on progress, and don’t be afraid to ask questions as work is done.
When you take time to do your research, you have a much better chance of finding a contractor that will give you the home renovation you’ve dreamed about!
Enjoy Your Improved Home!
When done well, a home renovation creates years of joy and satisfaction. From minor improvements to completely changing areas of your home, it’s all about what you need in your space.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your hard work!
