If 2020 is the year when you’ll finally transform your property Grand Designs-style, here are five tips to help you nail the home improvements process.
1 Don’t underestimate the design stage
Be methodical in your planning and, above all, take your time, then make sure your builders stick to the plan According to Wandsworth-based interior designer, Viki Lander: “Don’t design on the fly with builders on site. What seem like small changes can have a serious knock-on effect if not planned properly at the start.”
2 Find the right builder
Get recommendations from friends and family, read reviews online and take up references. It’s also worth going to see the builder’s previous projects. You should get quotes from at least three companies to make sure the prices you are quoted are reasonable.
3 Don’t always go with the cheapest
If one quote is much cheaper than the rest, proceed with caution – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Make sure your builder doesn’t scrimp on materials either – after all this work, you want the renovations to last.
4 Know when to call in the professionals
Professional fees from architects, structural engineers and surveyors will push up your costs. But, be realistic about when you need to call in the professionals – not doing so could be a false economy.
5 Remember – it all adds up
If you’re trying to stick to a budget, make sure you factor in the small additions, such as door handles and light switches, which can add up to a substantial extra cost. Don’t forget to add in VAT too – many builders won’t include it in their quote and an extra 20% could push up the cost of a large project dramatically.
Read more renovation tips in this Evening Standard Homes & Property article.
