We can't afford mistakes

Posted

Q. What can I avoid in doing my newly purchased home renovation? You often write about what goes wrong, and I can’t afford to pay for things that could have been avoided. We have a limited budget, and just discovered that almost everything we do will cause taxes to go up. Plus, we’re a family of seven in a two-bedroom rental and need to move changes along ASAP. Can we start some work, like sheetrocking and insulation, take down an old sunroom, re-side, and replace our kitchen and bathrooms ahead of time, without waiting for permits? We know we need permits for a new family room addition with a master bedroom on top. What do you think?

A. I think ASAP is one of the most dangerous abbreviations in the English language. It sets you up for false assumptions and failure before you begin, with unrealistic expectations of how long it really takes. Construction is unlike most tasks because it involves many layers of issues, from hundreds of regulations and limitations to engineering problem-solving to government review to space planning to construction management, and at all phases there are pitfalls when you have no knowledgeable guidance.

Most of the work you described can’t be done without permits, except finishes and kitchen replacement in exactly the same place. Your town lets you do that, but many villages won’t, so always ask specific questions of an inspector or plans examiner in your municipality before starting anything. Rules to follow: Find a licensed professional, with the knowledge of your municipality’s regulations, to trust. Don’t work by the opinions of a committee of contractor, friends, relatives, etc. They don’t necessarily know the policy or building regulations, and usually offer opinions based on limited experience or hearsay, not facts. Don’t assume anything or look for simple. Even seemingly small details can lead to placing rain buckets around until someone shows up to rip apart brand new work that just ruined your ceiling and walls.

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