
5 Things That Can Delay a Home Renovation
By: Monika
A home renovation project can be a fun and exciting undertaking. Searching for design inspiration, picking out materials and finishes, and seeing your vision finally come to life is a feeling like no other. And depending on the scope of the project, a renovation can increase a home’s property value, improve its functionality, and increase your comfort, safety, and enjoyment.
But renovations have their pitfalls, too. One of the most common complaints from homeowners who have undergone a home renovation is the length of time it took to complete. If a renovation is in your future, pay attention to these 5 roadblocks that can delay your project.
1. Changes Orders
Sometimes things come up during a renovation that force a homeowner to deviate from their original plan. However, if you start making changes once the work has started because you changed your mind on the location of the kitchen island, or decided to remove that wall after all, you can be sure that the expected completion date will go right out the window. Have a clear scope of work that details the design, materials, and timeline and try to stick to it as best you can to avoid costly delays.
2. Lack of Flexibility
On the flipside, being too rigid can also cost you. Be available to discuss plans, progress, and problems with your contractor. Be open to scheduling changes. Sure, we’d all like to sleep in on the weekends but those extra hours of work can help keep your project on schedule. And decide what you’re willing to budge on should a product or material be on backorder. For example, if your kitchen flooring is delayed, this will push back the installation of your cabinets, countertops, backsplash, and so on. Which brings us to our next point…
3. Material Availability
The availability of building materials has been volatile over the past few years, causing project delays for many area homeowners. With shortages in mind, it’s a good idea to choose at least one backup material, style, or finish. Should the delivery of your number one choice be delayed, you can then decide whether waiting is worth it or if you’d rather go with option B to keep the project moving forward.
4. Hidden Surprises
Surprises hidden behind floors, walls, ceilings, and even underground can completely derail a timeframe. Outdated electrical and plumbing, water damage and mold, and asbestos are just some of the problems that can turn a relatively quick renovation into a long, drawn-out process. An experienced contractor will educate you on issues you may encounter given the age and condition of your home. It’s also helpful to add a week or so to the timeline as well as a contingency fund to your budget in case issues come up.
5. Permits and Inspections
Homeowners embarking on their first renovation might be surprised to find out how long the permit and inspection process can take. In some cases, hand-drawn plans and a detailed scope of work will be all that’s required. Other times, the permit might require engineered plans with certified stamps which can take time. Additionally, the building department may need to inspect the project at certain phases to ensure that the work is being completed to code. And since inspectors don’t just drop everything when a homeowner or contractor calls, you may need to wait several days before they can show up.
Have a Project In Mind?
For more than 65 years, P.C. Plumbing, Heating, AC and Remodeling has been helping homeowners turn their vision into beautiful, comfortable, and functional spaces. And we can do the same for you. Today, we offer a host of home remodeling and handyman services to help fulfill whatever your objectives might be. To learn more about our remodeling services or schedule a free in-home initial consultation, contact us today.