6 Considerations When Renovating During a Crisis

Whether you’re still in the early stages of planning a home update or you’ve already broken ground, COVID-19 will likely impact some aspects of your renovation.

While you may need to make minor adjustments to your timeline, it’s still possible to renovate during a public health crisis. Here are six considerations to keep top of mind when updating your home in the face of global crises:

1. Follow Local and National Regulations

In response to a health crisis, the government may set restrictions or even bar construction on your home. That’s why you should familiarize yourself with both local and national regulations to ensure you carry out renovations safely.

If construction is not permitted in your neighborhood, you should work with your contractor to develop a contingency plan. If construction is permitted in your area, make sure you still abide by social distancing rules. Communicate with your contractor to determine logistics such as work hours and designated entry points, so you can carry out renovations safely.

2. Organize Your Finances

A health crisis can also impact your finances. Should you experience a change in income or employment, you may be concerned about how you’ll be able to fund your project. In these instances, dipping into your personal savings may not be ideal. However, you can have peace of mind in knowing you have other options.

If you’ve been paying on your mortgage for a while, you may be able to leverage your home equity to obtain a loan that you can put toward renovations. Or, you could use a credit card to provide financial cushioning for minor home updates that you’re able to pay off quickly. Just make sure you consult a financial expert before determining the best option for your needs.

3. Anticipate Delays

Given the uncertainty of the times, you may face unanticipated delays or changes to your original plan. Many materials suppliers are experiencing backorders and shipping delays, which could throw a wrench in your plans and cause you to deviate from your timeline.

Regardless of where you are in the renovation process, it’s important to remember that things won’t go exactly as planned. Head into renovations with an open mind and understand that you may need to make some adjustments along the way.

4. Schedule Virtual Consultations

Some contractors offer virtual consultations to help keep the planning process moving from a safe distance. Virtual sessions are held in the same way as in-person consultations and can push the planning process forward until you’re ready to start construction.

Through virtual consultations, you can send photos of the space you’d like to renovate and discuss your options with a designer via video chat. Your contractor will be able to advise you on proper measurements, send electronic documents to sign, and offer recommendations based on your goals and limitations.

5. Take On Smaller Projects

Unfortunately, a crisis can bring non-essential renovations to a halt. However, you can still update your home by tackling some projects yourself. Taking on DIY projects, like painting, organizing, and resurfacing can not only keep the ball rolling on renovations but also save you money.

If you live in an area with active stay-at-home orders, you may have more time than usual to put toward improving your home. Use this time to evaluate your project plan and identify any tasks that you have the time and skills to complete on your own.

6. Protect Your Health

If a crisis has forced you to put your project on hold, be sure to take the necessary steps to protect your home and your health. Even if you’re not working on renovations, it’s important to take measures to protect yourself from hazards, such as dust, loose wiring, or exposed nails.

Consider building temporary plastic walls, covering any exposed piping or wires, and closing air vents to preserve air quality while your project is on hold. If you enter the work area, make sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask to shield yourself from exposure to health hazards.

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Even though a crisis can present a lot of stress and uncertainties, you don’t necessarily have to put all your plans on hold. If you’re planning on or are in the process of renovating your home, be sure to keep these tips in mind for a smooth project.

About The Author: Written By Victoria A.