This list helps you avoid unnecessary headaches
Good planning makes your renovation easier, cheaper and more manageable. Whether you are renovating a single room or your entire home, this checklist can help you get started.
In this guide, we cover:
- How to plan your move
- How to set a budget
- What insurance you need
- What you need to buy for your first home
- Packing tips
- Storage for furniture and belongings
Below, you’ll find a checklist to help make your renovation easier.
1. Define the purpose of the renovation
Start by considering what you want to achieve.
- Do you want a new look?
- Should your home be more functional?
- Is there a need for major remodelling or structural changes?
A clear goal makes it easier to plan both your budget and materials.
2. Find inspiration
Spend time exploring different solutions before you get started.
You can find inspiration, for example, on:
- Google Images
- Home and interior blogs
- Facebook groups about home and interior design
Save your favourites so you have a consistent thread throughout the project.
3. Set a realistic budget
Create a detailed budget that includes:
- Materials
- Tools
- Tradespeople
- Unexpected expenses
Compare prices, look out for offers and consider second-hand materials if they suit the project.
4. Choose the right materials
The cheapest option is not always the best.
Consider, for example:
- Durability
- Maintenance
- Cleaning
- Functionality
- Design
Choose solutions that fit your everyday life.
5. Plan the timeline
Create a realistic schedule.
Remember that:
- Materials may have long delivery times.
- Tradespeople should be booked well in advance.
- Unexpected delays almost always occur.
If you are doing the work yourself, a simple project plan or an Excel spreadsheet can help you keep track.
6. Check whether you need permits
Some renovations require approval.
This may, for example, be from:
- The municipality
- The housing association
- The owners’ association
- Check the rules before the work begins.
7. Choose tradespeople carefully
If you need professionals, you should:
- Get several quotes
- Read reviews
- Ask for references
- Get the agreement in writing
- Agree on a schedule for the work
This provides peace of mind throughout the project.
8. Protect your furniture and belongings
Renovation creates dust and often requires extra space.
Consider:
- Move furniture away from the work area.
- Store valuable belongings securely
- Cover floors and furniture properly.
If you do not have space at home, a storage unit during the renovation can be a practical solution. At Pelican Self Storage, you can store your furniture safely until the work is finished, and you can also borrow a free trailer to transport your belongings.
9. Make sure you have the right tools
If you are doing the work yourself, it is important to have the right equipment.
If you’re a beginner, you can find plenty of helpful guides and videos online, including on YouTube.
10. Follow up on the project
Regularly check that the renovation is following the plan.
- Review the schedule.
- Stay in touch with the tradespeople throughout the project.
- Respond quickly if delays or changes occur.
- Good communication can save both time and money.
Make your renovation easier with a storage unit
During a renovation, furniture, moving boxes and personal belongings can quickly get in the way. By storing them in a secure storage unit at Pelican Self Storage, tradespeople have more space to work, while your belongings are protected from dust, damage and paint. When the renovation is finished, you can easily move everything back into your newly renovated home.