We may still be in the throes of winter, but spring and renovation season are just around the corner. Many wait until the last minute to start planning a renovation, and as a result, run into unnecessary delays and added costs. Here is why you should not wait and why the wintery weeks ahead are actually the best time to start planning your project.

First, you need to understand your wish list – and what parts of it are actually realistic in terms of your budget and timelines. This might seem like a daunting task, but there are tools that can assist you with this. There is a number of apps that are designed to help create checklists, develop images and basic floorplans to aid in organizing your thoughts and conveying your wishes to your contractor. Plus, with recent interest rate cuts, now is the perfect time to assess your likely budget to enable discussions with your contractor.

Due diligence

Hiring the right professional renovator, a process that includes arranging and getting quotes back, checking references and finding someone who understands your needs can easily take months. Put written contracts in place as soon as possible as good contractors are always busy – you do not want to end up with the last choice. Seek out a renovator that is a member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s RenoMark program, which BILD administers in the Greater Toronto Area. RenoMark renovators are professionals who adhere to a strict code of conduct, offer written contracts, carry at least $2 million in liability insurance and provide a two-year warranty on their work.

Plus, working with a RenoMark renovator assures that you are working with someone who understands the ins and outs of the permit and approvals process, someone who can assess your project to determine what – if any – building permit is necessary and can handle the application process. They also know when additional professionals, such as architects or structural engineers, are required. Invite RenoMark contractors to your home to review its existing conditions and to discuss your goals.

Contingencies

Second, plan for pivots to make sure the job is done right the first time. Oftentimes, once a project has begun and walls have been opened up, unforeseen and unplanned issues arise. Working with a good contractor can minimize the risks, but when renovating an older home, challenges occur. These can include things such as asbestos or lead paint, which require abatements, outdated wiring, such as knob and tube, old lead or clay water pipes that will need to be replaced or structural challenges requiring remediation (work done by/DIYers that compromised joists or cracks in the foundation allowing in moisture or vermin). It is prudent to set aside a contingency fund to ensure your project does not get stopped or delayed mid-stream due to a financial shortfall – talk to your contractor about what is a reasonable amount.

Third, invest in the critical features of your home. Most people only do a big renovation once or twice in their lives – so it’s essential to not skimp on structure, building code or internal systems (such as plumbing and electrical) as these elements, while less visible, are critical to the viability of your renovation in the long term.

Renovating your home is a great way to enhance its livability. Do so with confidence by working with a RenoMark renovator. Visit renomark.ca for more information and to find a RenoMark renovator in your area.