The whole truth about renovations

A renovation can make a property unrecognisable. Sometimes we do it straight after completing the transaction; sometimes we put it off and decide to refresh a single room, waiting for a better moment to do the rest. Learn a few tips that will help you carry out a renovation in your flat without obstacles or stress. Here is the whole truth about renovations!

Do it yourself or hire a crew?

A renovation means not only changes but also costs and a lot of work. Wondering whether to do it yourself or with the help of professionals? In our view each solution has its advantages and disadvantages, but the final decision depends on the scale of the changes. Planning to freshen up a room and give it a new character? There is nothing to stop you doing it yourself. A renovation crew is a good solution when a full-scale renovation lies ahead. Laying tiles, skimming walls, knocking down partition walls – this is really difficult work that must be done carefully to avoid any shortcomings. A professional's experience and knowledge speak for themselves, so by hiring a renovation crew you can be more confident that the changes will be made in line with your expectations.

Which professionals to choose?

Deciding to hire a renovation crew is only the beginning. How do you choose the best one? Unfortunately, when choosing we have to rely on the opinions of friends and of complete strangers. Consider whether the crew in question has carried out a renovation for, say, an acquaintance. Look at examples of the professionals' work. You will then see whether the solutions they choose suit you. The next step is to read reviews online. More and more people share their views about companies and describe their work in detail – it is worth reading them. Arrange a preliminary meeting with your chosen contractor. During it you can talk about your plans, hear the other side's view and ask for an initial quote. Remember not to leave the conversation about finances until the end. Sometimes the rate quoted by the company or your own expectations may turn out to be a key issue.

The agreement is the foundation

Once you have agreed the terms of cooperation with the renovation contractor, remember to put them in a written agreement. We know that an oral agreement is also valid, but its terms are difficult to prove. The document should be accepted and confirmed by both parties. A well-drafted agreement protects you against the renovation dragging on and against possible additional costs. Remember also to set the start date of the renovation, the amount of the advance payment (zaliczka) and the scope of work.

READ ALSO – IS IT WORTH RENOVATING A FLAT BEFORE RENTING IT OUT?

The whole truth about renovations – do you need a permit for a renovation?

If you intend to refresh a property, for example by painting the walls, replacing floorboards or making other improvements, you will not need to report the renovation to any institution. Larger renovations, connected for example with replacing the plumbing, must be reported to the relevant authorities. Some work also requires the permission of the housing cooperative or the homeowners' association.