Home Owner's Renovation Guide - A Step by Step Guide to your home renovation process!

When a house starts aging or needs upgrades, homeowners usually start looking to either sell the property or, in most cases, renovate or remodel the space. With so many resources on the internet and overwhelming competition in the market, it may be challenging to understand what exactly happens in the entire renovation process.

This guide will help you understand the renovation process. You will learn about some of the critical steps in your renovation project.

Project Steps

1. Identify what you are looking for - Before you start, set clear goals and priorities for your renovation. The better you communicate to the renovation team; the results will meet your expectations. Do not forget to set a realistic budget, and while you are at it, consider energy efficiency and sustainability.

2. Hire a professional - Whether you plan to renovate just one space or the entire house, you need to hire a professional. A smart way of picking your professional( an interior designer or a contractor) is first to choose the type of contract. A traditional contract where you work directly with a contractor or a full-service design firm, like Xeen Designs Interior Design Studio.

3. Assembling your Renovation Team - Once you have selected your renovation contract (contractor or design-build), be sure to interview your renovator prospects, get multiple quotes and interview your potential team member. Ask for references, make site visits and take notes of the worksite looks tidy and safe. Remember to ask about the liability insurance workplace safety and employers' liability coverage, as contractors must have insurance, or it may leave you liable for the cost of property damage or injuries.

4. Apply for the necessary Building Permits before you start - Having necessary licenses allows you to comply with the Ontario Building Codes, which covers health and safety, fire protection, construction materials, structural sufficiency, and mechanical and plumbing systems. Without appropriate permits, you risk intervention by the city legally and may jeopardize your insurance or future sale of your property.

5. Get a written contract - It is imperative to get a written agreement from your renovator. A contract protects you by setting out clearly what and when you are getting, how much you are paying for it, and other essential details. Find out some of the items your contract may include here.

6. Prepare for Pre-Construction - Review your contract and design documents carefully. If you have any questions, ask. Be ready with your finances as per the contract. Set aside a 10% contingency budget in case of unexpected expenses. Ensure all insurances are current (homeowners and contractors). On the job work site, make arrangements to protect your valuables. It is a good idea to move furniture out of the way into storage. Let your neighbor know about the renovation.

7. Construction Phase - Once construction begins, communicate only with your primary contact on the renovation team. Knowing your point of contact reduces conflicts confusion and creates a healthy and respectful environment for the team. Be available and participate in the renovation process. Meet regularly, make and approve changes promptly and inspect the completed work. Review and pay invoices following your contract. Adhere to safety rules while visiting the worksite. If you require additional work, request a formal change order and understand it will affect the cost and timeline of the project.

8. Wrapping up your project - This is the busiest time, where there are many decisions to be made quickly. A professional will help you get through this phase with ease. Remember to do a final project review/walk-through. You are in good hands if you have already hired an interior designer. They are great at creating a "punch-list," aka a list of incomplete things that need to be addressed to the contractor professionally. Make final payments for the terms of your contract. Get the necessary documents for any appliances or electronics and review your warranty. Finally, notify your home insurance carrier about the updates of your house.

A professional renovator strives to make your project a great experience and a massive success for you and your family. Happy Clients are the renovator's best virtue!