Preparing for a renovation project is a huge undertaking, but the work starts long before the contractors arrive. From choosing designs and deciding on a budget to working out schedules, there’s a lot to consider. To make the process smoother, here are a few tasks you can tick off before the project gets underway.
1. Clear as much space as possible
No matter what project you’re embarking on in your home, from knocking down a wall to an extension or a loft conversion, your house will become a mess. It’s unfortunately unavoidable, regardless of how tidy your contractors are, but you can make things slightly more organised by decluttering beforehand. Take the time to figure out what you want to keep, and what can be sold or donated, to clear valuable space. It also means that when the renovation is finished, you can enjoy your dream home free from superfluous items.
2. Rent a storage pod
While you can wrap up your furniture or move it into an untouched room to protect it during your reno, an easier solution is to rent a storage pod that can sit in your driveway or in front of your house, protecting your belongings from getting damaged or covered in dust. If keeping the pod on your property isn’t practical, move your furniture temporarily into a storage unit so that everything stays clean and is out of the way for your contractors so they can work more efficiently.
3. Get clear on the details
You may think that your designs are easily implemented, and because you’re the visionary, you know how your renovation will run. But it’s important to go through the details of the project carefully before it gets started. Not only does this apply to the designs and materials used, but also to who will be handling each task (are you doing any of the work yourself or is it entirely down to the contractors?), how long the renovation is intended to take, and if there are back-up plans in place to handle any unforeseen circumstances.
4. Keep valuables secure
New people will be coming and going all the time while your renovation is being completed, so it’s important to keep your valuables in a safe place such as an in-home safe. It can also help to install a video doorbell so you can monitor deliveries while you’re out of the house and keep track of who is entering the home. Similarly, smart locks can be useful for granting temporary access to contractors.
5. Do your research for planning permissions
Depending on the type of renovation you’re planning, you may need permission from your local authority to go ahead. While your contractor will likely assist you with this, it’s important to do your own research as well and check that any permissions required are applied for early, so you’re not held up waiting for a response.
Planning applications can take a while to be approved, so speak to your local planning department as early as you can. There’s an extensive list of changes you can make to a property where you’ll be covered by permitted development rights, and planning permission isn’t needed, but it’s important to be sure so you can apply if necessary.
6. Account for all materials
You don’t want your renovation to be held up by missing parts or delayed materials, and luckily, it’s an easy experience to avoid with a little prep. Don’t start revamping your home until you have as much as possible on-site, regardless of how small or seemingly insignificant you might think those parts are. The more you have picked out, ordered and delivered, the smoother your renovation will be.
A single wall light can hold up the whole operation, since your electrician won’t know the size, where to position the outlets, or how high or low you want the light to be. From there, it can then hold up plasterers and decorators, carpenters, and the list goes on. Overseeing these details as far in advance as you can will make all the difference to how stress-free the renovation is.
7. Get insured
Any reputable contractor will have their own insurance cover, but it’s also important that your homeowner’s insurance is comprehensive and will cover everything you want to have done. If your current insurance doesn’t protect you against accidents or unfortunate incidents when remodelling work is being done, you may need to increase your cover or add an increased premium to protect yourself. A specialist policy, like home renovations insurance, can even be necessary for extensive, complex renovations where there’s more risk.
8. Work out your living requirements
If you’re planning a major home remodel, you may not be able to stay in the property while the work is being done. So, one of the ways you can prepare for your reno is by working out the logistics of your living arrangements. If you can, staying with friends or family will be the most affordable option but if that’s not practical, make sure you book a short-term rental in advance so you can be confident you have somewhere to stay while the work is being carried out.
While this is an additional cost to your budget, the good news is that contractors tend to be able to work faster and more efficiently if the property is empty, which will speed up the entire renovation process.
While the bulk of the work is yet to come, the preparation before a renovation is just as important as the work itself. These proactive steps, such as decluttering, securing valuables, researching permissions, and checking you’re fully insured, will help you set the stage for a smoother and more efficient renovation. If you can organise materials in advance, arrange alternative living accommodations, and protect your belongings while the work is being done, you can minimise stress and avoid delays considerably.
By Tom Fenton 
By Annie Button 
