With more than 70 years of combined experience in providing home renovations to Perth area homeowners, we qualify as experts. Sadly, one of the things we have become experts on is repairing well-meaning but badly executed home renovation “disasters.” It ends up costing more to do the repairs than if they had just called us in the first place. Here’s how to avoid DIY disasters.
Get Permits
You may think a new roof or a timber deck is no big deal, but your council may view it differently. Here are a few things that you will probably need a permit to build:
- Removing or adding walls in your home
- Additions
- Demolitions
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Installing windows or doors
- Building or removing a stairway
- Installing new siding
- New air conditioning or heating
If you build without a permit, your council will make you stop. They may make you tear down the work you already did. And, of course, they won’t mind relieving you of some of your money.
Know Your Costs
Sometimes, it seems like there must be a home improvement book that says, “Thou shalt sorely underestimate the time and materials involved in any DIY project.” Find a cost calculator at a home improvement or timber retailer near you. Then add at least 10% into your budget.
Know Which Home Renovations Require Professionals
If you have a nice office job and have never been a professional builder or tradie, there are some jobs you are going to have to leave to professionals. The rule of thumb: anything that alters structural elements of your home is not a DIY job. Those aren’t the only jobs that should be left to professionals. Here is a short list:
- Home extensions, second storey additions, any additions
- Replacing windows
- Replacing repairing the roof
- Plumbing
- Electrical
If you are looking for professionals to take care of your home renovations and you live in the Perth area, why not call the best: Next Level Extensions.
Call us today for an obligation-free consult: 1300 948 094.
