Renovating a property is both an exciting and daunting task. You have the opportunity to create your dream home, and either live in it or sell it for a profit. If you are acting as project manager for the property, you need to be aware of a few guidelines and rules. It’s essential to plan ahead, stay safe and keep a close eye on your budget.
Of course, with construction work comes the risk of injury and accidents on site. In a recent study by the National Accidents Investigation, which pooled 2,000 British residents, nearly three-quarters of the population have injured themselves at home in the last year. DIY projects are a common cause of accidents at home – particularly more complex tasks involving ladders. If you have experienced an injury at home that wasn’t your fault, you should look into filing a personal injury claim.
Home renovations are perhaps the most challenging of all the home DIY tasks. Planning ahead can help you stick to a schedule and stay safe while you manage the project. Try to keep things on track for the completion date to avoid overtime fees for your labourers.
Project management is a difficult job and one that should not be taken lightly. You need to understand your responsibilities and thoroughly research The Constriction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. These regulations are a legal requirement for both commercial and residential renovations.
As a project manager, you are responsible for ensuring the building and the site around the property is safe to work in. Always keep health and safety at the forefront of your mind and protect the welfare of your workers. You should identify the main risks and consider how you will prevent an accident. Serious accidents can occur from a collapse of excavations, fall from a height, exposure to dust or asbestos and failure of a structure.
Furthermore, invest in renovation insurance to cover public and employer liability against damages to building materials, personal accidents and existing structures. As soon as you exchange contracts, you are responsible for the property. Insurance may seem like a high initial cost, but it can save you a lot of time, money and hassle in the long run.
You need to make sure your workers have the appropriate protective equipment and tools to work safely. Try to go for the mid-range equipment to avoid wasting money on poor-quality cheap items. The same applies to power tools and building materials. It’s better to invest the first time around and avoid injuries and the need for replacement parts later on.
Remember to plan, prepare and over-order items for your renovation project. Tiles get smashed, power tools stop working and protective equipment needs to be suitable at all times. Over order materials by up to 20 per cent to ensure you have enough to get the job done in your desired time frame.
