Published: 28/03/2017
Carrying out a minor refurbishment to your property can add value and interest. Minor refurbishments can be from a lick of paint to freshen up the walls to a brand new bathroom or kitchen fitted, here are some tips to help you along the way.
1. Planning:
You will need to check for planning permission if you want to build something new, make major changes to the property, i.e. change the use of your building or just changing your windows. To check if your project will need planning permission, contact your local council.
2. Funds:
It is very rare for a project to come in on budget so prepare yourself by having a contingency fund available. You may come against further problems when refurbing your property and if you don’t prepare with extra funds, the works can be placed on hold which can cause delays.
3. Inspect:
Inspection of the property is ideal to get inspiration of what you will be re-modelling. You will need to review the whole area to avoid surprises later in the refurbishment.
4. Design:
It is best to stick to neutral colours as bold wallpapers, colours and flooring could become dated and tasteless. Stick to light and airy as this will open the property up and not make it look dull and dingy. Utilise space to your advantage by using appropriate storage.
5. Schedule of Works:
Include all works that are needed within the refurbishment to a schedule of works that will need to be carried out by your chosen contractor. All works from damp proofing to light bulbs must be included so nothing is missed out.
6. Regulations:
You must comply with all Health and Safety regulations for your property by installing smoke detectors, CO2 detectors. If a new boiler is to be fitted a Gas Safety Certificate will need to be presented, etc.
7. Damp:
Check for damp before starting any refurbishment works. If you discover damp during the maintenance works this can cause delays and extra costing. Try to get good ventilation when carrying out maintenance works as some improvements can cause damp to occur.
8. Risks:
The area should be checked for any asbestos, faulty electrical
cables, possible gas or water leaks. The above listed risks could cause future disruption for the scheduled refurbishment works if not assessed properly.
9. Contractors:
a. Do they hold Public Liability Insurance
b. Do they meet the requirements needed for the works
c. Is the costing reasonable for the works carried out.
10. Finishing Touches:
The contractor and yourself should evaluate the schedule of works against the completed project. If there are any jobs that need to be touched up a snagging list must be presented to the contractor to complete. Finally carry out a professional clean before the property is viewed.
For help with Property Management
please call or email Gemma White on
020 8222 9906, g.white@willmotts.com