4 Common Remodelling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Refurbishment or renovating your home is an excellent way to increase its value. However, a significant renovation project can quickly turn into a disaster, especially for those who are inexperienced.

Let's take a look at four of the more common home renovation mistakes that homeowners make and how you can avoid them.

Mistake 1: Not applying for planning permission 

The first mistake you will want to avoid is undertaking any home renovation without checking if planning permission is required. While some refurb projects will not require planning permission, others will. Regardless, it is more than worth taking the time to do your research to ensure you do not run afoul of the local authority. A visit to the planning portal or a quick phone call to the local planning department is all you will need to find out if permission is required and how much it will cost.

Mistake 2: Fear

A great way to ruin your renovation is to be too afraid to transform the space into whatever best suits your family. Try to avoid being trendy and going with what you saw on grand designs. Instead, consider how you currently use your kitchen, bathroom, or whatever other space you're changing and improve it for the better.

Mistake 3: Thinking cheap is better

It's rarely a good idea to go cheap when it comes to contractors. You want someone who is going to do the best quality of work at a fair, affordable price. High-quality material is also advised you can reduce costs on materials by opening trade accounts.

Also, don't be the type that skimps on costs just because something isn't visible. A good example is if your contractor recommends that you install something like bathroom tanking. Yes, it's an extra cost that is mostly a preventive measure against water working through tiles and the growth of mould. It is a small consideration in protecting the more substantial investment you're making in upgrading your home.

Mistake 4: Changes mid-project 

As the old saying goes: "measure twice, cut once." Changing your mind in the middle of your renovation is almost certainly going to cost you. Once you commit, try to stick to the plan unless circumstances force you to make a change. Contractors will charge for scope creep and in some instances can cost more than if the changes were in the initial cost. 

These are just four of the many mistakes that can be made by an inexperienced home renovator. If you're thinking about a major remodel, contact us first. Our project management team can share which renovations have added value and equity to other local homes.