Considerations for a building refurbishment

Building refurbishment is when you re-style or modify an existing building. Buildings will not necessarily need a full refurbishment very often at all, but there is often some work that would be beneficial to carry out, whether to the interior of exterior. Sometimes a complete refurbishment will be carried out, and this is generally in circumstances where the building is going to change its purpose (from offices to houses, for instance), but can also be because it is in desperate need of updating because of antiquated wiring systems, poor energy efficiency etc.

​Often building owners will overlook the amount of money that may be lost just because the energy you are using to heat up a building is being wasted due to poor insulation or an inefficient boiler. If you are having a building refurbished anyway, then consider improving the wall and ceiling insulation at the same time.  Check out how to be more energy efficient in the home.

Having a structural surveyor assess your building is a good way to find out if your building is in need of modernisation or a full rebuild.

When works are needed make sure that you hire a professional team. Do not be afraid to see a portfolio of other work that they have done and references from previous clients. This is especially important if the building you want to improve has period features, or other specialist requirements.

Refurbishments can also be done in stages. Perhaps you want a bigger kitchen, a rear or wrap around extension could give you the additional space that you need. If you have a leaky roof, would that be a good time for a full roof replacement, or even a loft conversion? We recommend that you undertake improvements as they are needed and consider all possible areas to make sure you don't miss anything that could benefit you by improving. Always hire the best you can afford and be sure you are clear about what needs doing. Get your paperwork in order, such as drawings, contracts and costs before the project commences.
 
If you need help with any structural elements of your build, please give our strcutural engineers a call on 020 8088 3834.
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