7 Most Common Delays in Home Renovation Schedules

Don’t Delay Your Renovation Project

You’ve decided to renovate your home, you’ve created a renovation budget, and you’ve set a firm date you’d like the work to be completed by.

Depending on the project ahead, you may need to be a bit more flexible with that date. Delays, surprises, hiccups, and other issues can affect even the most airtight home renovation schedules.

We’ve talked in the past about what it takes to make a tight and ironclad home renovation plan. With the right planning in place, you are more likely to complete your renovation project on budget and on schedule.

We’ve put together some of the most common delays homeowners run into during the home reno process.

2.png

1. Weather

Depending on the project, you need to plan for inclement weather. If you’re hoping to build an outdoor deck within a period of 5 days, it is best to have a contingency schedule that allows at the very least one more day if rain does get in the way.

2. Lack of Project Oversight/Scheduling

If your project features a lot of different contractors, building materials, and other moving parts, there needs to be one party ensuring that everything comes together properly. If, for instance, the shipment of tiles arrives after the tiler, you will be paying a tiler by the hour to stand around and wait.

3. Obtaining Building Permits

Before you hit the ground running, you need to successfully obtain a building permit. During the application process, your local building staff will ensure that the plans you submit comply with the Ontario Building Code, local Zoning By-laws and other Applicable Law. It’s best practice to review your plans thoroughly ahead of time, to make sure there is no conflict.

Depending on the scope and complexity of your project,  you can expect a wait time to get approval from the city. Cities like Toronto have a Residential FastTrack application process that can make obtaining a building permit much faster.

3.png

4. DIY gone wrong

It’s true that tutorials on Youtube and other sites have made certain home renovation jobs seem a little less daunting. There are some jobs, however, that only a skilled tradesman should be trusted to approach. The more intricate and complex your renovation becomes, the more you are going to need an experts advice and touch.

Related article: Read “How to Avoid a Home Renovation Nightmare” to make sure your reno project is as stress-free as possible.

5. Pre Existing Conditions

When construction begins and walls and floors start getting removed, what surprises will your home have in store for you? If any serious problems like water damage, termites, or more are discovered, they must be addressed right away. Always have a contingency budget, plan, and schedule in place - or at least be flexible -  in order to proceed with your project if the worst should happen.

6. Inexperienced Contractors

Because your home is such a big investment, it’s important that you put your trust in home renovation professionals who you can count on.

In our guide “10 Ways to Avoid Hiring the Wrong Renovation Company” we explore some ways to make sure you’re getting the right team for your job. Some of the things in the article we suggest to look out for is that your contractor:

  • is insured

  • has good reviews and referrals

  • adheres to the Ontario Building Code

  • is fully licensed

7. Client Changes

Everyone has a vision of what their renovation will look like in the end. Often when the demolition has been done or new walls are going up clients see many more creative possibilities for their home. They may be small changes but there can often be quite large changes that will impact the timeline of the renovation. Sometimes an amendment to the building permit is needed, sometimes new materials and trades need to be sourced to accomplish the new vision. The time needed can change quite dramatically.

Stress-Free Home Renovations

With over 25 years of home renovation experience, we at Bryant Renovations have developed a successful design and build process. From day one, we work with you to ensure your vision becomes realized in a timely and efficient manner.

Make sure your home renovation schedule stays on track with our home renovation experts. Feel free to contact us today and we will answer your questions and lead you on the path to a finished home project you will truly love.