Three Things to Consider Before Remodeling

You envision your property’s old barn, detached garage, or even garden shed transformed into everything from an artist’s studio to a guest cottage.

While your imagination is fertile, often the remodeling plan is futile due to the structure itself.

Remove your rose-colored glasses and face the building in harsh daylight.

If when the wind blows, the structure leans, like an iconic Italian tower or creaks worse than great aunt Tilly that might tell a story – a horror story.

How can you decide if a remodel is possible?

First, call in an architect.

Their inspection determines if the battle against time and gravity has been lost or gives the okay to proceed with the remodeling project.

Second, before swinging a sledgehammer there are important steps you must address.

Avoid future problems by establishing your budget.

Armed with your remodeling wishes, the architect can offer estimated design and material, labor and installation costs. A little legwork, online or in person, will determine appliance and décor prices. A general rule to remember is if replacement of current key elements such as roofing, HVAC, or electrical systems is 50-percent or higher, they must adhere to current building codes.

Building codes, permits and insurance are expenditures many fail to calculate into the budget.

Local building departments require insurance on the structure and its workers - even if the remodelers are you and your friends and family. The need for statutory workmen’s compensation insurance is a possibility.

Third, accept obtaining government approval and permits is often an arduous task.

Be prepared for setbacks, like design adjustments. This can occur should a zoning variance, perhaps when the distance between your property line and remodeled building, fails to receive zoning approval.

Getting organized and staying focused on the finished outcome keep any remodeling hassles to a minimum.