20 tips for a more organized home renovation

Taking on a renovation project may seem simple at first glance. But no matter how small the project, you need to be well prepared. Here are 20 tips to help you do just that.




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Determine the scope

Kitchen, powder room, basement… does your house need a refresh? The Canadian Home Builder’s Association recommends figuring out which project to prioritize. If you take on too much, you run the risk of not finishing anything. Determine the scope of your first project in as much detail as possible.




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Make a plan

Have you decided which room to renovate first? Perfect, now it’s time to create a detailed plan. If your project is complex, it’s best to use the services of a professional, such as an architect or interior designer. Are you comfortable with technology? You can also use special software to create a plan for your contractor to reference.




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Source your materials

Once you’ve put your project on paper, it’s time to start shopping for materials. This will help you to better plan the next step. Start by looking at hardware and specialty stores. You also might want to check out companies that sell used materials.




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Set your budget

When you start a renovation project, all the “might as wells” can add up fast. Since we’re changing the kitchen countertops, might as well change the cabinets. Since we’re putting in new bathroom tiles, might as well install in-floor heating. That’s why it so important to set a budget and stick to it.




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Confirm financing

Once your budget is set, you need to make sure that the funds are readily accessible. If you haven’t been able to save enough money to pay for the work in cash, other financing options are available, such as a personal loan or mortgage refinancing. Some provinces also offer governments grants and tax credits, depending on the type of renovation you want to undertake.




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Apply for the necessary permits

When time and budget are at a premium, ideas of grandeur can quickly take over a renovation. Before you get started, find out if the type of renovation you want to do requires a building permit or certificate of authorization from your city. Some municipalities also require a permit if you need to place a container or equipment on a road or sidewalk or in an alley.




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Find a contractor

Have you decided that your project would be better done by a professional? Now you just have to find the right one. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from people who live nearby so you can see their work yourself. If that’s not possible, try searching local referral sites such as homestars.com.




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Get quotes from different contractors

Depending on which kind of professional you need, whether an electrician, plumber, carpenter or general contractor, request a quote from at least three different companies. Request a written cost estimate for the work and materials.




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Determine what you can do

While you’ll need to use a contractor or other professional for some of the work, you may be able to do certain tasks yourself that don’t require a certified professional, such as painting. Determine what you can do; it may help reduce the final renovation bill a bit.




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Plan to rent any equipment needed

Will your renovations require the use of a container, scaffolding, or special tools? Do your research to find the best rental price for the length of time you need the equipment, make your choice, and reserve it right away to ensure you’ve got everything you need for the job.




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Determine a timeline

Whether you’re doing the work yourself or contracting it out, don’t forget to set a schedule to avoid living in a “permanent” construction site. Give yourself a reasonable amount of leeway to account for possible delays. When dealing with contractors, ask them how much time is needed for each task, but add extra time in case there are delays.




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Choose an appropriate moment

Do you need to use a subcontractor to renovate while you are working from home? Pick the best time of year and day. While they work in the house, for example, you could work on the patio. Need to change your windows? Book a time with an installer in late spring, early summer, or fall before the cold weather sets in. Contractors are also less busy during certain seasons when their rates may be lower. Take this eventuality into account while making your budget.




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Get a written contract

If you decide to work with a contractor or subcontractors, be sure to get all the project details in writing. A contract should include the following details: the contractor’s contact information and professional license number if applicable, a complete description of the work, warranties, total costs and payment schedule, the work plan and how construction waste will be managed, rules concerning safety and property maintenance, the contractor’s insurance information, etc. The contract should also include a clause about what happens if the contract is not respected as well as a termination clause.




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Notify your insurance carrier

While the contractor is responsible for having liability and damage insurance, you must inform your insurer of the work that will take place on your property. Make sure that your own liability insurance coverage is adequate and get accident insurance coverage if necessary.




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Plan for a second home, if necessary

A home expansion, full bathroom remodel, work that requires the electricity or water to be cut off over a long period of time, and similar projects may require occupants to leave their homes until the work is done. It’s important to plan ahead and find a place to stay during such work.




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Childproof the space

If you’ll be staying in your home during the renovation and you have young children, ensure that potentially dangerous objects are kept out of reach. Put away sharp tools. Make sure that electrical wires are inaccessible. Install safety barriers to keep children out of the renovation area. After each day’s work, check to make sure that no equipment or tools have been left outside the renovation area.




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Make a reno-free zone in the house





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Plan for waste management

If you DIY your renovations, you’ll be responsible for getting rid of construction waste that a contractor would otherwise be responsible for. Before starting your project, find out where the nearest eco-centre or sorting centre is located. Some retail and hardware stores also accept hazardous household waste, such as old paint cans.




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Know your limits

Whether you’ve committed to doing your own remodel or to subcontracting some of it out, things can change along the way. You may realize that the task requires more than one person, is beyond your skill set, or has gotten out of control. Don’t hesitate to call on professionals rather than letting the work drag on.




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