There are seemingly endless possibilities when it comes to gut renovations; there’s complete demolition, partial demolition and structural changes to consider, as well as new plumbing, wiring and finishes.
That said, while the possibilities are plentiful and exciting, there can be no escaping the fact that a gut renovation in Astoria, NY can be costly and complex.
To make sure you’re fully prepared when planning a gut renovation, here are some important factors to consider:
What you must have, and what you’d like to have
Make a list of all elements of the renovation that you can’t live without, and then create a second list of all the things you’d like to have if budget and timeline permits.
The current condition of the home
Given the age and history of your home, ask your contractor what could happen that may add to the budget or delay proceedings. This can help prevent unpleasant surprises further down the line, and help you form a contingency fund.
A contingency plan
As touched upon briefly above, a contingency plan for unexpected issues that may arise during the gut renovation, is essential. In general, add at least 15% to the total cost of the project.
Whether to stay at home, or move out
While it’s almost always possible to remain in the home while a gut renovation is being carried out, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a good idea to. Firstly, find out if you’re permitted by law to remain in the home should you so wish to, and then think about how safe and convenient it will be. Many decide to move out during the project, at least while the major work is being carried out, but unless you have somewhere to stay for free, this will obviously add to the overall cost.
Demolition considerations
It’s never recommended to carry out any demolition work yourself, unless you’re qualified in construction; the risks are simply too big.
It’s also important to note that moving walls, especially load-bearing ones, can add a significant chunk to the budget, as a structural engineer will need to be consulted with, and temporary support walls have to be added.
Furthermore, it may be that certain hazards are uncovered during the demolition process, such as lead paint, mold or asbestos, and these need to be dealt with by a professional.
Choosing a general contractor
It goes without saying that when you hire a general contractor (which is recommended for a project of this size), you should look for one that has all the necessary experience and insurance. But it’s also worth noting that a general contractor typically has many solid connections with professional subcontractors in the industry, such as engineers, plumbers, architect, designers and electricians, meaning you can expect every aspect of the renovation to go as smoothly as possible, as swiftly as possible.
Whether you’re renovating a house from top to bottom, or considering apartment remodeling in Astoria, NY, getting your head around the basics of such a big undertaking can help ensure that the project goes a lot more smoothly, and could even save you both time and money.