Plan your renovation before you start building.

Start by defining what you want to change, why you want to change it and your approximate investment range. From there, the existing property can be reviewed and the appropriate design, permit and construction path developed.

The appropriate lead time depends on the scope. Projects involving design, custom materials, structural work, permits or strata approvals generally require more pre-construction time than simple cosmetic renovations.

Establishing an approximate investment range early allows design decisions to be developed around a realistic financial framework. Design and budgeting should inform one another throughout planning.

The appropriate contingency depends on the building, renovation scope and how much can be verified before construction. Older properties and projects involving concealed existing conditions may justify a larger contingency.

Major materials and fixtures should generally be selected early enough to confirm specifications, pricing and availability. Long-lead products may need to be ordered before construction begins.

Compare the actual scope, materials, allowances, exclusions, supervision, permits, cleanup, warranty and project-management services rather than comparing only the final totals.

Permit requirements should be considered during early scope development because they can affect design, professional requirements and the construction start date.

Sometimes. Whether remaining in the property is practical depends on the size of the renovation, affected rooms, utilities, dust, noise and the construction sequence.

Ideally, the construction scope, major design decisions, required approvals, major material selections, procurement plan, schedule and site logistics should be sufficiently developed before construction begins.

Yes. QUAY's renovation process can coordinate project planning, scope development, design, materials, permits, pricing and construction preparation depending on the needs of the project.