The Hidden Costs of Home Remodeling

You’ve finished the planning phase of your remodeling project, the budget’s set, and all the finishes and hardware selected. Yet as the renovation progresses, you find that your budget isn’t stretching as far as you first thought. The reason? Usually, it’s the several odds and ends that pop up along the way, and ones that can’t be ignored.

So, better prepare yourself for the next project by reviewing these frequently hidden costs that could send your budget through the roof.

Permits. Before you swing that sledgehammer, find out what – if any – permits your project might need. Anything above changing surfaces or fixtures will likely require a permit. And depending on the scope of work, such permits can run from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Debris. You can’t just toss your old tile, sheetrock, and cabinets in the trash. Be sure to factor in the cost of renting a dumpster or hiring a company to dispose of the debris properly.

Property Lines. Certain projects like erecting a fence, building a shed, or building an addition near the edge of your property line may require a land survey. Property lines can get blurred over the years, so you want to ensure that whatever you’re building doesn’t encroach on your neighbor’s lot and has the proper setbacks.

Fixing “Fixes.” If previous owners performed sloppy DIY projects, they’ll have to be corrected before that project phase can continue.

Up to Code. Building codes change overtime, so if your home hasn’t been updated or renovated in decades, you’ll have to bring things up to code, especially where plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and safety factors are concerned.

Pest Damage. Don’t be surprised to uncover pest damage once you start opening walls.

Home Features. Consider adding useful upgrades now instead of regretting not doing so later. Improvements like in-wall speakers, undercabinet lighting, hidden charging stations and more all help create added convenience and luxury.

Decorative Extras. Budget for new décor, blinds, doorknobs, and other little extras that you’ll likely want – even after the project is completed. Nothing makes existing fixtures look tired and dated like seeing them in a completely refreshed space.

Child and Pet Care. Children and pets don’t mix with table saws and drills. You might need to board your furry companion and hire a babysitter or plan some outings to keep everyone out of harm’s way while your home is under construction. If your kitchen is being renovated, expect to dine out or order take out more than usual. That’s another budget item frequently overlooked.

Clean Up. From dust in every nook and cranny to damaged landscaping, be prepared to shell out some money (or elbow grease) to get things back to normal once renovation is complete.

Surprises. Even the simplest and most carefully planned projects are bound to encounter some hiccups along the way. Be sure to leave a little room in the budget for the unexpected.

Already you have a bunch of reasons to hire an experienced home remodeling company to handle the entire project for you. And nobody does it better than Pann Home Services. Contact us today and let the planning begin!