How quickly can we start building?

The Renovation Race: Why Speed Isn't Everything

The excitement of renovation can be difficult to resist! At Atelier EURA, we understand our clients' eagerness to get started and see their dreams come to life. However, the most smooth and successful renovations are about a lot more than just breaking ground quickly.

Today we want to explore the importance of realistic timelines and the potential pitfalls of rushing the process.

The Illusion of an Instant Makeover:

Home renovation shows as well as social media often paint a picture that suggests seamless transformations, with projects materialising overnight to be common. But while these programs can be inspiring, they rarely show the reality of the planning or regulatory processes involved in a project. This is not because they want to be misleading but because their purpose is not teaching the audience but entertaining. 

Essential Steps Before Construction

Before construction commences, there are crucial steps that must be undertaken:

• Design Development: A well-considered design is fundamental for a successful renovation. This stage involves understanding the client's needs, exploring options, and refining the design until it complements their vision.

• Planning Approval: Depending on the nature and scale of your project, planning permission might be required and obtaining approval involves navigating regulations, submitting the necessary documents, and potentially consulting the neighbours.

• Freeholder Review (Leasehold Properties): If yours is a leasehold property, your freeholder will likely need to review and approve your proposed renovation plans as part of the License To Alter process and before construction can begin.

• Building Regulations Sign-Off: Because building regulations ensure structural integrity and safety standards are met , securing a sign-off necessitates collaborating with qualified professionals to ensuring the design complies.

• Finding the Right Contractor: A competent contractor is vital to deliver a high-quality result. Tendering (the process of obtaining quotes, comparing credentials, and selecting the most suitable contractor) takes time and should not be rushed.

The Cost of Skipping Steps:

The promise of a quicker start can be tempting, but ignoring any of the essential steps can have costly consequences:

• Unlawful Work and Demolition: Starting construction without the necessary approvals can lead to the local authority classifying your work as unlawful. This can result in costly delays, potential fines, and even the forced demolition of unauthorized work. And of course, we should remember that in listed buildings, in particular, doing works or removing original features without permission is in fact a criminal offence.

• Lack of technical project development: Bypassing the detailing of the project, not carrying out key condition surveys or not engaging professional expertise can compromise the structural integrity and safety of your building and impact insurances, mortgages etc.

• Poor Quality Construction: Rushing the tender process can increase the risk of selecting an unreliable contractor. This can lead to poor workmanship, delays, cost increases and the need for remedial work.

Your Guide to a Smooth Renovation Journey

At Atelier EURA, we believe in a throughout and realistic approach to renovations. Our team can help you navigate each step efficiently while adhering to all necessary regulations. We will:

• Collaborate with you to develop a detailed design that meets your needs

• Guide you through the planning permission process, ensuring all documentation is accurate to minimise the number of planning conditions to be expected.

• Work with qualified professionals to ensure your design meets building regulations standards.

• Liaise with your freeholder (if applicable) and supply relevant documentation as part of the License to Alter Process.

• Assist you in finding a competent contractor who aligns with your project requirements.

• Oversee the works for the duration of the contract 

If you are looking to plan a project soon, read our FREE e-book >HERE< and contact us when you are ready. We can help you transform your home or business to make the most of the space available and reflect your personality.