Regulations and Planning Permission

Prior to purchasing the property that you intend to renovate, it is exceedingly important to conduct research into building regulations and ensure you have the necessary planning permission. 

Period properties, in particular, have regulations preventing the modifications of internal and external features, whether for health and safety or heritage aspects. Knowing the particulars of your prospective renovation project and that the works are approved is essential in order to avoid breaching any legal protection that the property has. 

Commission a Full Building Survey

Instructing an experienced Chartered Surveyor to commission a Full Building Survey on your prospective new project can:

• save you lots of money long-term 
• and prevent you from investing in a property that is falling to pieces. 

Full Building Surveys bring to light issues that are not always visible initially. These reports extensively detail the condition of a property and the cost of any repairs that will need undertaking.  Surveys also help determine if a lender will feel comfortable investing in said property with you. 

Renovation Budget

The excitement of discovering a low-priced property with a high potential often overshadows the costs of home renovations. Early in the project individuals are fixated on elements and finishing touches that will make a fixer-upper their dream property. 

House renovation costs will easily escape you, therefore you need to be realistic with your budget. It is a good idea to create a strict spreadsheet detailing the exact costs of everything from window treatments and light fittings to skirting boards and radiators. 

Additionally, it is vital to set aside more capital to cover any unexpected costs. For example, old buildings, the popular site of renovations, often require new electrical works which can consume a lot of the budget. To rewire a 5 bedroom property including allowance for new light fittings can cost approximately £10k. 

Timescale / Work Scheduling. 

Often, individuals invest in a low-priced property to renovate and sell for a considerable profit, meaning they may be paying for their property alongside their new project. 

Creating logical scheduling of works will enable you to be a better project manager. This aspect is also vital to prevent any financial dilemmas down the line.

Finally, any construction industry professional would strongly advise against attempting any building work you are not capable of.  It will ultimately cost you in materials and expenses when later having to employ a workman. More so, it will result in stress and cost you mentally.

How we can help you

Katie Malik Studio is proud to offer house renovation services and renovation ideas to those seeking the reward, without the stress of scheduling and overseeing all necessary surveys and works.

 For more information regarding our cost-effective, step-by-step services of renovation or Interior Design, contact the team today! 

Useful Links

Check a trade- How much does it cost to renovate a house? https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/cost-renovating-house/