FadyReno’s expertise spans across a wide array of renovations and remodels, each tailored to the unique demands of individual projects. The company's expansive reach is not just limited to the diversity of services but also the geography it covers. Serving cities across Ontario, FadyReno has become a household name, trusted and revered by many for its impeccable service, timely deliveries, and a transparent approach.
And that is exactly what out guide to renovating a house is here for — to arm you with the right knowledge to ensure your project results in the house of your dreams.
Here, we have broken down the stages of a renovation into easy-to-follow steps, from how to remove any risk from your purchase with the right surveys, to how to deal with any unexpected and expensive issues.
Although no two renovation projects are the same, there tend to be certain tasks and requirements that many have in common. The general running order the majority of renovation projects tends to look something like this:
The actual process of finding and buying a house to renovate is often one of the hardest parts of renovating a house. Properties in need of modernisation are always in high demand and as a result, it is not uncommon for people to end up paying more than a house is worth in order to beat the competition, adding to your house renovation costs before you even get started.
Cash-buyers tend to be more successful than those relying on a regular mortgage or a renovation mortgage, as getting a mortgage on a property will depend on an independent valuation to ensure the house is worth as much as your accepted offer.
Despite properties selling fast, it's important not to rush into anything — checks will need to be made to uncover any issues that could swallow up your budget.
Fortunately, you don't have to buy blind and even before you have purchased a renovation project, it is possible to get a good idea of the condition of a house.
Properties in need of renovation are often sold at auction or using a sealed bid system of best and final offers. Get to know how these systems work early on to help you stand the best chance of securing a renovation property at a great price.
Not all renovation projects are going to be right for you — some will just work out to be too much of a financial undertaking while others will involve too much work.
It is important, when assessing a home for renovation to understand its potential — and this is where a renovation checklist can come in useful. When viewing a house, ask the following questions:
Is there space to extend, whether that's a rear or side extension, or converting a loft, basement or garage?
Look at neighbouring houses. Have they been successful in getting planning permission for renovations similar to what you have in mind?
Are there any covenants or planning restrictions you are aware of that could prevent your planned extensions or alterations?
Ask a builder or architect to take a look at the property and ask for their professional opinion.
This beautiful Victorian house has been renovated throughout. A remodel has been made possible by the addition of a striking contemporary glass extension that now houses an open plan kitchen living space. (Image credit: Simon Maxwell)
If you are aiming to renovate on a budget, this is a really important stage. Before buying a property to renovate, you should be aware that, apart from the usual house renovation costs, there are some additional fees you should factor in, including:
Reconnection fees: It may be necessary to connect or re-connect a water supply. If there was one it may have been disconnected. Electricity will also be required for power tools or day-to-day living if you plan on staying on site.
Professional fees: include planning permission and Building Regulations approval, a variety of surveys, structural engineer reports and any other professional fees (e.g. tree surveys) in your budget
Contingency fund: make sure you have some extra cash on hand to deal with anything unexpected that may arise (and when renovating a house, it is absolutely to be expected)
Stair Railing InstallationThere are hidden fees to consider when buying a renovation property, which will add to your overall expenditure on the project. (Image credit: Future)
The right building survey will ensure any potential issues are flagged up early. In fact, it is possible to arrange a survey before even putting in an offer on the property if the homeowner consents, but this is usually undertaken after an offer has been accepted.
A building survey should highlight any areas of concern and give you an idea of any essential repairs that will be needed and what they might cost. You will be able to use the report to make a decision on whether to proceed with the transaction, or whether you may be able to barter money off the property based on the findings.
A building report should reveal the construction methods that have been used in the house (sometimes these vary if the house has been extended over the years). This information can then be used during the house renovation in order that any new materials and techniques used are appropriate.
Remember, most structural issues will have a solution. While these may well mean you need to increase your budget, finding them early on will allow you to plan better for this.
You also need to consider that certain structural problems, such as subsidence, could affect your insurance options, as well as its eventual resale value.
Carrying out a survey and calling in the services of a structural engineer should give you a clear idea of the kind of work you are likely to face when renovating a house. (Image credit: Rachael Smith)
Carrying out a survey and calling in the services of a structural engineer should give you a clear idea of the kind of work you are likely to face when renovating a house. (Image credit: Rachael Smith)
Aim to identify any structural problems with the property as early on in the project as possible — not only are they dangerous, but they could cause further damage. Subsidence, underpinning or piling work to the existing foundations can be a particular concern. If lateral spread has occurred in the walls and roof, steel ties might be needed. In some cases, the insertion of steel props, beams or scaffold will prevent further collapse.
A measured building survey will give you a precise scale drawing of the layout of the existing building. These are often required when putting in a planning permission application for the likes of an extension.
Also think about a drainage survey — it offers peace of mind on a property's drain system and is relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of rectifying any drainage problems that are left unidentified after you've already bought the property.
Once you exchange contracts on a renovation project you become responsible for the site and you must therefore have the right insurance in place. Renovation insurance covers your property while building work is taking place, and is also sometimes known as building work insurance, building renovation insurance and house refurbishment insurance.
If you are taking out a mortgage to fund the project, your lender may not release any money without your warranty and proof of insurance being in place and should you experience issues such as flooding, theft or fire to the property, however, this tends to be based on standard home insurance. If you don't let your insurer know when you're conducting major renovations, your standard policy could be invalidated.
When renovating a house, insurance should include public and employer’s liability, cover for building materials and works, plant, tools, temporary buildings, the existing structure, personal accident cover and legal expenses. Typical costs range from £500-1,500 depending on the project.
Renovating a house can result in some of the most beautiful homes — however it is vital to take out the correct insurance to avoid costly delays. (Image credit: Simon Maxwell & Joe Traylen Photography)
While house warranties are not always a requirement when renovating a house, they can be a good idea.
A warranty is basically a policy which will cover your house against flaws in its design, materials or build quality — it will also cover any problems that occur as a result of these defects. They usually last for around 10 years.
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