Guide to getting approval for renovations
Home renovations can be fun, exciting and even life changing, but before you get carried away with the romance of it, it’s important to be aware of the red tape.
We’re going to take a look at some of the essential legal boxes you need to tix when renovating. While doing so may seem like a bit of a nuisance during the renovation process, it will ensure that you don’t waste your money (and risk your safety).
Council approval
Depending on where you live, the nature of your lodgings and the type of renovations you have planned, you may require some form of council approval.
Your best bet here is to contact your local council ahead of time and check what your requirements are. You may need a planning permit if your renovation requires building alterations and you may need a surveyor to confirm the plans meet regulations.
Meeting requirements
If you’re taking a gung-ho approach to the renovations and planning to manage the project yourself, rather than hiring a registered builder, you’ll need to make sure you obtain the correct building permits and ensure the work is up to required standards.
Hiring licensed tradespeople
It’s generally recommended that you only used licensed building practitioners and tradespeople. Builders, architects and engineers must meet certain obligations to maintain their accreditation, which ensure their work and your home are protected.
Make sure you ask for references, check for a current license and insurance policy and even consider a simple contract describing the work and any warranty.
Additional hazards you may have to deal with
- Termites can be a big problem and undo months of hard work on renovations and building projects. If you’re concerned about termites affecting your project, it’s advisable to contact your local council and find out if your area has a documented termite problem. From here they can advise you on how best to protect your renovations from infestation.
- Many homes may contain asbestos building products, and if you think yours does you’re obliged to get a check from a reputable assessor. If they find asbestos, make sure you hire a licensed removalist to ensure you get rid of it safely.
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