A condo renovation, much like a house renovation, can be an exciting thought and a fun, rewarding project. However, if you’ve already started your condo renovation project, or are just starting to formulate a plan for one, you may have figured out that there are unique (often frustrating!) challenges involved. Below you will find 10 tips on how to survive a condo renovation.
Tips For Surviving A Condo Renovation
- Keep an eye on the clock. Most condo corporations will have a set of rules that regulate hours of work – know what they are. Having someone show up to do work on your unit and being told they can’t will only slow things down.
- Know what you can use. Often materials that you can use will be regulated by the condominium board. Find out what the limitations are (flooring, window coverings, lighting etc).
- Book the elevator before hand! In a high-rise condo renovation access for bringing materials in and removing waste from the unit will generally be done via the elevator. Make sure you book it before hand to avoid delays.
- Know the size of the elevator. Be aware that you will be limited by the dimensions of the elevator in your building. Keep this in mind when picking materials for your condo renovation.
- Understand that electrical and plumbing isn’t easily moved. Relocating electrical and plumbing in a condo can be difficult – perhaps not even allowed. When planning your condo renovation make sure you understand your limitations before your start shopping and tearing things down!
- Plan for the garbage. Waste removal during any renovation is a pain – it can be even more difficult with a condo renovation as you probably won’t be able to leave a garbage bin outside the building! Allow for this and make sure to work in a system where you have a regular schedule for garbage disposal. If you don’t the condo corporation may have penalties.
- Keep it clean and quiet. Remember that hallways and elevators are shared common space. Keep them clean and the neighbours will be happy – get them dirty and they may start complaining. Also remember that noise can be an issue in some buildings, remind people working on your space to keep things as quiet as possible in the hallways and shared space.
- Make sure they can get in! If you need to arrange with building security to allow for trades people to get in, do it before they get turned away!
- Reserve parking. If you need to reserve parking for your contractor or trades people make sure you do it! Also find out if there are any restrictions on the size of vehicle that can safely park in underground spots or if there are any other restrictions.
- Hire someone who knows. A condo renovation often has its own unique set of challenges. When looking for a contractor for your project, do yourself a favour and find one who specializes in condo renovations. Make sure whoever you hire is familiar with the rules for your building or knows how to go about finding out what the rules are! If you are unsure of where to start looking, check out HomeStars for recommendations.