Consents
With a few exceptions, major work is going to need building consent. The building consent application will require plans and specifications to be attached. Your Master Builder can prepare these for you.
Do you need to hire a designer?
Whether you need a designer to design and draw up plans depends on the extent of work being done.
If you are having a bathroom or kitchen renovated, you can use the specialist services of kitchen and bathroom designers. Some offer a design service only, but others can offer a service which includes all or some of the following:
- A consultation at your home
- Bathroom/kitchen design service
- Strip out of existing fittings
- Installation of new fittings
- Plumbing work
- Electrical work
- Paint and paper finishing
- Complete tile services
- Payment and finance options
Do you need to hire an engineer?
With some renovations and major alterations, you will need the services of a chartered professional engineer.
Engineers are necessary when you are extending up or out, or when you are removing structural elements. They can also provide specialised advice on other parts of the project.
Your builder or architect should let you know if an engineer is required and what the extra costs will be. Or you can contract one directly by looking online or getting referrals from other people.
Our Master Builders will help you through these steps.
Find a Registered Master Builder.
Plan renovation projects carefully
The first steps in planning a renovation is to collect ideas and information from books, websites, social media, magazines and brochures. A great place to start is the
House of the Year website where you will see the best new homes and renovations across all budgets and categories.
Work out a budget and decide what is achievable and what is not. It is also a good idea to plan the project room by room. You will also want to consider the future and how your needs may change over time.
Planning for a specific project
Consider whether you can realistically live in the house while the work is being done. If you are planning major work, such as adding another story, it might be sensible to move out while work is underway.
Seek legal advice
We strongly recommend all homeowners get independent legal advice when entering into a building project, including a renovation. Your lawyer should review your building contract and your guarantee. They should take you through both your contract and the guarantee to ensure you know your rights and obligations, as well as those of your Builder or Master Builder. Ideally find a lawyer who has some experience with construction projects, as they will be best placed to explain the contracts to you and identify the key risks that you face.