Tag: trades

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Decorating 101 DIY Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

When not to DIY. And when it’s ok!

Stuart Tucker, Chief Customer Officer at hipages, talks about when to DIY and when you really need to hire a tradie.

As a nation, we are obsessed with renovating and research from hipages has found that Australians have been spending an approximate $70 billion each year on trades to complete jobs around the home. While we are all homebound, now is the perfect time to get onto those home maintenance items lingering on the to do list.

We understand that some homeowners may be weighing up what they should and shouldn’t get done around the home based on what they can reasonably manage themselves and jobs that would require a tradie’s expertise. Before you strap on a work belt and dust off your power tools, it’s important to know the limits of your capabilities. According to our research, Aussie homeowners spend $3.53 billion annually on hiring tradies to fix DIY gone awry.

My tip is to ask yourself the following questions before you tackle a DIY project:

  • Do I have the necessary tools and expertise? Always do your research upfront before you get started to ensure you have the right tools, materials or expertise required.
  • How risky is it? Projects involving plumbing, electrics or working at heights are risky. Aside from putting yourself in harm’s way, you may also cause costly damage to your home. Always assess the risk and err on the side of caution.
  • How much time and space will it take? Jobs like painting may seem like a great idea but consider how long the project will take from start to finish and the space required. If it’s going to cause an inconvenience, it’s best to delay till another time.

There are still a number of jobs both inside and outside the home that are great DIY projects.

Inside the home: Interior styling – consider what you don’t like about a room, or what isn’t ticking the boxes for you anymore. You can then look at simple, effective solutions to meet the functionality of the space or room. This could include bringing in new furniture or furnishings, like cushions and decorations, or changing up the room layout.

Outside the home: Gardening is something that can be tackled by a DIYer, from sprucing up existing garden beds or creating new and inviting spaces in your backyard. Though we may be spending more time indoors, it’s worth giving your outdoor area a makeover so you have an alternative space to relax in and enjoy.

With that said, there are a number of jobs that should never be DIY’d including plumbing, electrics and home extensions and renovations. A licensed professional should always be hired to complete these works:

Plumbing jobs Although simple plumbing jobs such as unclogging a drain or fixing a leaky tap can usually be tackled by an amateur handyman without any problems, larger repairs or installations should never be attempted without the help of a professional plumber.

Electrical jobs Electrical work should never be attempted without the help of a properly licensed electrician due to the high risks associated with DIY-ing electrical work. In fact, in some states you’re required to use a licensed tradie even to change your lightbulbs!

Home extensions and renovations When it comes to DIY projects, the onset of reality TV renovation shows has given people a false perception of the work involved and the potential for costly mistakes. Registered builders are well versed with the building process and understand how to keep a build on schedule with quality control in check, while maintaining safety standards.

Repairing property damage Property damage may range from clogged drains to leaky roofs and water damage, so when considering whether to tackle a job yourself or bring in a professional, you’ll need to look at the scale of the job, the risks involved, and what sort of time commitment would be required.

If you are looking to hire a tradie at this time, it is essential to follow the recommended advice of health authorities. This includes adhering to social distancing and limiting face-to-face contact. Utilising technology is the best way to do this, from quoting a job at the outset through to end of job payments.

Typically the quoting process would involve a tradie visiting your home so they’re able to see the space or job you want done. A great alternative is sharing photos or having a Facetime call with your tradie so they can virtually view the job and provide a quote before they arrive.

Technology can also aid with contactless payment at the end of a job, avoiding the need to handle cash on either end. The hipages platform allows you to make payments directly to your tradie at the completion of a job. Many tradies also have credit card payment facilities.

These are some simple ways that allow homeowners and tradies to continue getting jobs done around the home.

*Data according to LEK Research conducted in 2018

hipages provides a better, smarter way to connect tradies and consumers and get the job done well.

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Bathrooms RENO ADDICT The Block

How long does a bathroom take? The Block vs. reality!

Reece Bathrooms’ Daniela Santilli weighs in how long a bathroom really takes…

There’s no doubt about it, The Block contestants completed a phenomenal amount of work each week. Of course, that is because they’re dedicating 100% of their time and effort to the task; not letting a day job or even sleep get in their way. If The Block has inspired you to tackle a bathroom makeover, you’ve probably wondered how long your own renovation will take. Here, I outline the key stages involved in building a bathroom, whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating.

Mitch and Mark’s Block bathroom, via Reece

Stage #1: Defining your vision
The start of your bathroom renovation will be marked by the creation of your vision for your project. Gathering inspiration on and offline, creating a mood board and collecting samples of fixtures, fittings, hardware and finishes will help you define your style, and what you want your bathroom to look like. This is something you’ll continue to revisit and refine throughout the design process.

“Having a clear vision of your bathroom renovation will definitely set up the process to run as smoothly as possible. Spend the time looking at your budget and working through the costings. Always add in a buffer for unforeseen issues, as they always arise,” says Alisa, one half of former The Block winners and interior design duo, Alisa and Lysandra. “We also find it vital to order all the different samples and place in a mood board, to give the overall feel of the project.”

Stage #2: Pre-Build
Once you have the design locked in, it’s time to order your bathroom products, confirm relevant permits and find and book the right tradespeople – obviously something that can prove to be contentious on The Block! It typically takes around 10 weeks to decide on products and materials, get your paperwork in order, and meet and book in your tradies.

“Bathroom renovations are often the busiest as they can require a variety of tradies that need to work at all different stages. When booking your tradies, make sure to do your research and finds ones that come recommended and shop around with quotes. Make sure to communicate clearly on all the details and timelines,” says Lysandra.

Stage #3: Meeting your team
While there’s an element of ‘making it up as you go’ on The Block, to avoid that kind of pressure it’s important to communicate the finer details before the work begins. Hold a meeting with your project manager and/or tradespeople to discuss your design – everything from grout colour, tap and vanity height to power point locations. This will ensure everyone is on the same page and your vision is expertly realised.

Elise and Matt’s Block bathroom via Reece

Stage #4: Preparing the build
The Block is a 24-hour worksite, your home isn’t. Your tradespeople will need 2-to-4 days to set up the site, sequester the area they need to work in and, most importantly, check that all your products have arrived and are correct.

Stage #5: Building your new space
The next stage is when everything starts to take shape, with waterproofing then tiling, and fixtures and fittings being installed. This usually takes between 8-to-10 days on site. Earlier this season, we saw what happened when Jesse and Mel went full steam ahead with their guest ensuite; their desire to race to the finish line meant that things were missed and, ultimately, led to an unfinished bathroom. While Jesse and Mel may have been bound by a tighter deadline than a renovation off The Block, this lesson in process and procedure is one to remember in any bathroom project.

Stage #6: The finishing touches
Work should slow down at this point, but this means that the details are being perfected. It’s these little details that really matter, because they’re what makes the space uniquely yours. By taking the time to install them correctly, things like robe hooks, toilet roll holders and towel rails will be perfectly placed for your needs. Expect this to take 4-to-5 days.

Stage #7: Sign off and handover
Instead of a mad dash to the finish line, you’ll have a couple of days to inspect all the amazing work your team have done and sign off the job with your builder. Check if there are any snags in the tiles that have been laid, or that the tap pressure and flow is adequate, for example. It’s not something we see on The Block regularly, but it’s an important element of creating a bathroom that’s better than you imagined.

Creating a bathroom is a really rewarding experience if you follow the right steps. Remember, it’s not a race or a competition. Unlike The Block, it’s best to take your time, prepare yourself for every stage and avoid the drama.

From creating your moodboard to managing your bathroom build,  The Bathroom Kit has everything you need to create a bathroom better than you imagined.

What do you think of the above advice? Does it fit your own experience or expectations?

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RENO ADDICT The Block

DIY you should never try: 5 jobs tradies say to avoid

Bostik Boys, tradies Mark Menagatti (AKA Spaghetti) on the left and Adrian Franchina

Spring is certainly the season to renovate and shows like The Block are inspiring many of us to change things up in our own homes. Even though there are lots of DIYs you can easily do yourself, there are certain things you should leave to the professionals to avoid a reno disaster.

We spoke to real life tradies Mark Menegatti and Adrian Franchina from Bostik, who helped glue together The Gatwick on the latest season of The Block. They gave us some advice regarding DIY tasks you should leave to the pros.

Bostik Boys, tradies Mark Menagatti (AKA Spaghetti) on the left and Adrian Franchina

Electrical work should always be carried out by a licensed electrician and upon the job being complete, they should provide you with a certificate of electrical safety and compliance.

Certain types of plumbing work, like the connection of gas appliances and hot water services as well as installing toilets, split system air conditioners and moving taps or drains, should be done by a licensed plumber, who should issue a certificate of compliance once the job is complete.

Another job that requires a certificate of compliance is waterproofing. If not completed correctly, issues that may arise from inexperienced waterproofing, may result in an unsealed permeable membrane application, with a potential repercussion of leaking/seepage into the below structures. This can cause rot and damage, which over time can progress to big structural issues that are expensive to fix.

As we know, asbestos is a highly dangerous material and removal should only be carried out by licensed asbestos removers under the strict rules and standards prescribed by that industry.

Last but not least is roofing. Adrian is an experienced roofer and has seen some daunting cases of people trying to attempt this themselves. Even if it’s only a repair to the roof, the roofer should hold a minimum of a DBL-K license.

By leaving the above to the professionals, you can make sure your renovation experience won’t be a daunting one and instead focus on things such as installing timber flooring, painting and grouting.

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House Tours Jen's reno RENO ADDICT

Reno realities: Jen’s kitchen update

In partnership with Latitude Financial Services

So, my kitchen reno started on September 27. And it still isn’t finished! Unusual? Not really! From my own and others’ experience, these things are never as speedy as you anticipate. Four weeks from start to finish? Pah! I never really believed it! Add to that the fact we had to stop for almost a week last week to have new floors go in (was hoping it would have already been finished but hey ho!), and here we are, with an 85% finished kitchen.

I’m not going to share any new photos here because I figure we might as well wait for the full reveal now! You can see all the progress I’ve shared on my Instagram and the hashtag #interiorsaddictfamilyhomereno

I’ve been lucky enough to have my friends at Integriti Bathrooms and their site supervisor (legend!) Steve coordinating all my trades. And there are a lot of trades involved, especially when you opt for a flatpack kitchen (for budget reasons). You need someone to demolish and take away the old one (or hire a skip), to organise someone to both assemble it (okay, it’s possible to DIY but Damian and I don’t rate our skills and patience in that department) and install, as well as a plumber, electrician and plasterer at an absolute minimum. We also got rid of a back door which required a carpenter, and added bulkheads, which required another visit from the plasterers. Then there’s always a wait for your stone (Caesarstone) to be cut by the stonemason although ours was ready in under a week, which is amazing!

Then unexpected things will pop up to throw you: fitting our concealed rangehood and venting it through the roof was a tricky job and we needed a different tradie for this.

We always planned to have a sliding barn-style door to our laundry but finding the right size door took a while, then we decided to do that whole wall in VJ panelling (door and all) and oh my goodness, it looks great! So this required more carpenters. And then I got a bit excited about VJ and decided to do wainscoting in the adjoining dining room. None of it is painted yet so ignore the off-white look!

So, was it worth doing a flatpack kitchen with the added hassle and time of organising trades myself (with help, thankfully)? A RESOUNDING YES. I couldn’t be happier with my cabinetry from Freedom Kitchen’s Essential Range. Every trade who has been in here (and my goodness there have been loads lately!) has been surprised (pleasantly) that it wasn’t a custom job and said the quality is as good as any more expensive kitchens they’ve worked with. And that’s good to hear from people who know their kitchens, but I was already very happy with what I could see with my own eyes. And I’ve been able to “pimp” my flatpack with my choice of stone, hardware, appliances etc. I’m delighted to be honest! Just want the damn thing finished!

Check out this video of me with Jess Aloi from Latitude Financial Services, discussing ways to get the luxe look for less in your kitchen reno:

Make your reno dreams come true with some help from our partners at Latitude Financial Services.

***

OUR KITCHEN SUPPLIERS

  • Project management and trades: Integriti Bathrooms
  • Cabinetry: Freedom Kitchens
  • Benchtop and splashback: Caesarstone
  • Appliances: Ilve
  • Tapware: Meir
  • Sink and black barn door hardware: Bunnings
  • Floor: Quickstep
  • Paint: Haymes
  • Hardware: Kethy
  • Blinds (DIY Online Blinds)
  • VJ paneling: Easycraft

I’ll give you all the finer details in the full reveal post. My painters are due today so we should be done very soon!

 

Categories
Bathrooms Expert Tips Kitchens

What tradies do I need for my kitchen or bathroom renovation?

By Josh Mammoliti

A complete kitchen or bathroom renovation will require the services of a number of trades to create your Pinterest-worthy space. Tradespeople you may need to hire include:

FOR KITCHENS

Kitchen installer
A kitchen installer may be necessary for the first step in your kitchen renovation: the demolition. Like a Blockhead, you may choose to do this step yourself, however if you’re not entirely confident, your kitchen installer is the right trade for this job.

Electrician
It is the electrician’s job to ensure any electrical outlets or lights are safe prior to the demolition. They will also be responsible for cutting out appliance holes in your bench top and the installation of appliances, lighting and electrical outlets. Don’t run the risk of any DIY work on anything electrical!

Plumber
A plumber will make sure any gas or water outlets are safe before the demolition can start. They will also cut out space for the sink in your benchtop, install the sinks and taps and any gas appliances or dishwasher drainage.

Cabinetmaker
You’ll need a cabinetmaker on hand to install your beautiful new kitchen cabinetry.

Stonemason
A stonemason will be necessary if you’ve opted for a stone benchtop. They will measure and install your stone benchtop including cutting out holes for your sink and appliances.

Tiler
A tiler will take care of all things tiles including your splashback and flooring.

FOR BATHROOMS

Waterproofer
Waterproofing your new bathroom is a critical stage in your renovation. Always use a qualified waterproofer who can provide warranty on the job in case of any leaks in the future.

Gyprocker/plasterer
Depending on the extent of your renovation, if you are removing tiles or have existing water damage, you may need a plasterer to re-sheet your bathroom or fix cornices.

Electrician
As with a kitchen renovation, an electrician is required to make any outlets or lights safe before demolition can start. They are also responsible for the installation of all the lighting and electrical outlets.

Plumber 
The plumber is responsible for ensuring any gas or water outlets are safe before the demolition can start. They’re also required for the installation of all your plumbing fittings including your bathtub, toilet, taps and shower.

Cabinetmaker
A cabinetmaker should be on hand to install any cabinetry, such as vanities or hanging mirror cabinets. They are also responsible for sorting out any new doors, architraves or other structural changes that are being made to the space.

Tiler
If you are opting for tiles in your bathroom, which is the most common and durable wall and floor finish, you’ll need a tiler to tile and grout your gorgeous new bathroom.

Glazier
A glazier is necessary for measuring and installing your new shower screen and hanging mirrors.

MORE TIPS

So, by now you should be ready to lock in your trades and get the ball rolling on your kitchen or bathroom renovation.

Here are just a couple more tips to make the whole process hassle free:

Have your plan and budget in place before you start consulting the professionals. Run this plan by the trades and retailers you will be dealing with and get their feedback as they’ve been through this many times before (especially if this is your first renovation). It can often save you money in the long run.

Working with a good tradesperson is a smart way to save money as they often have their own little black book of tricks up their sleeve to save you dollars. Get three quotes for trades, but remember you get what you pay for, so make sure you feel comfortable with the people you are dealing with.

Order all of your products and fittings early on. Do this before you book in your trades. It doesn’t cost anything for products to sit in your home waiting to be installed, but trades sitting in your home waiting for products to arrive will!

—Josh Mammoliti is managing director of The Blue Space, an online showroom of the latest in bathroom, kitchen and laundry trends.

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DIY Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

Barry Du Bois and Don Burke OAM launch National Asbestos Awareness Month

Reno Addict resident expert Barry Du Bois and TV personality Don Burke OAM and have joined forces to remind homeowners, renovators, handymen and tradespeople about the dangers of asbestos and how to manage it safely in the prevention of deadly asbestos-related diseases for National Asbestos Awareness Month.

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Barry, Asbestos Awareness Ambassador said, “Cancers caused by inhaling asbestos are preventable simply by knowing what NOT to do with asbestos-containing materials that everyday Australian’s could find in their homes.

“Asbestos is not only found in fibro homes. Australia was among the largest consumers’ of asbestos-containing materials in the world with many products remaining in any brick, weatherboard, fibro or clad homes built or renovated before 1987.

“To help save lives it’s absolutely critical that our message reaches all states and territories so every Australian can ‘Get to kNOw Asbestos this NOvember’.

“Asbestos was used in the manufacture of a broad range of products. It can be anywhere in the home!” said Barry Du Bois.

“Under floor coverings including carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls, ceilings and ceiling space (insulation), eaves, garages, roofs, around hot water pipes, fences, extensions to homes, garages, outdoor toilets, backyard and farm structures, chook sheds and even dog kennels so it’s vital we know where it is and the steps we need to take to manage it safely,” he said.

asbestso-awareness-house-and-sign

Ambassador, Don Burke said, “When I was a kid, asbestos was everywhere; in our homes, in our gardens – even in our toys. I have had the honour of meeting heroic people who were victims of diseases caused from inhaling asbestos dust from around their homes. Tragically, these people are no longer with us.

“With 1 in 3 Australian homes known to contain asbestos, their heroic fight against asbestosis and *mesothelioma compels me to continue their life-saving work in preventing more people from succumbing to these awful and avoidable diseases,” Don Burke said.

“Without knowing where these types of asbestos-containing products might be located or how to manage and dispose of asbestos safely, Australian’s play a risky game of ‘Renovation Roulette’ if they disturb asbestos-containing materials and release fibres that can be inhaled which may cause asbestos-related diseases including mesothelioma,” he said.

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The two dedicated advocates for Asbestos Awareness launched the campaign at a special event during the 2016 ‘Betty – The ADRI House’ Don’t Play Renovation Roulette Tour.

‘Betty – the ADRI House’, a purpose built mobile model home designed to demonstrate where asbestos might be located in and around homes, is touring South Australia for the first time.

Having already covered more than 36,000 kilometres throughout NSW, VIC and QLD, in 2016 ‘Betty’ and her dedicated crew will travel more than 6,000 kilometres and visit 36 communities over 46 consecutive days to deliver Betty’s potentially life-saving Asbestos Awareness message.

Senator Nick Xenophon welcomed Betty saying, “Every Australian needs to know about this campaign. Every Australian can potentially be exposed to deadly asbestos fibres. It is impossible to remove all asbestos that has been used in Australia to date and to do so would mean bulldozing one in three homes.”

“Betty and this campaign is literally about saving the lives of many thousands of Australians from a horrible substance. The fact that this deadly material is seemingly everywhere means knowing the risks and how to manage it safely can save lives” Senator Xenophon said.

Peter Dunphy, Founding Chair of the Asbestos Education Committee who initiated the national campaign and Betty’s Tours said, “It’s vital that all Australian’s learn to identify and manage asbestos safely because it’s not worth the risk!

“In launching the national campaign in South Australia with Ambassadors, Don Burke, Barry Du Bois and Betty, a proven, invaluable community education resource, we’ll reach more Australians than ever before with this potentially life-saving message,” Mr Dunphy said.

Professor Nico van Zandwijk, Director Asbestos Diseases Research Institute (ADRI) said, “There is no cure for malignant mesothelioma. Asbestos cancers usually occur many years after the first inhalation of asbestos and we want Australians to stop underestimating this ticking time bomb that has a very long fuse”.

“To assist in ameliorating the Australian asbestos legacy it is vital that we learn to adequately deal with the large amounts of asbestos still present in our environment”.

“Prevention is the best solution and the National Asbestos Awareness campaign along with Betty are critical preventative measures that continue to play a vital role in educating Australians about the dangers of asbestos.” he said.

If homeowners and renovators can’t see Betty in person, they can visit asbestosawareness.com.au for a ‘Virtual Betty Tour’, ‘Asbestos In Your Home – The Ultimate Renovators Guide and search the Asbestos Products Database to identify various asbestos-containing products to ensure they manage them safely.

Asbestos Awareness Month is the initiative of the Asbestos Education Committee in partnership with the Asbestos Diseases Research Institute and supported by the Heads of Asbestos Coordination Authorities to provide local, state and federal governments with practical awareness resources including Betty.

For information on asbestos, click here.

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Bathrooms Expert Tips

What happens AFTER a bathroom renovation?

By Andrew Stenos

The day is finally here. After weeks of dust, strange people in your house (who probably aren’t all that strange anymore) and showering on your balcony (true story), your bathroom renovation is finally completed. But is that the end of this project and process?

At Integriti Bathrooms, we generally believe that this stage of the project is one of the most crucial to customer satisfaction. So here are some special steps to ensure that your newly renovated bathroom is everything you have ever wanted.

lindfield-bathroom0124

Take a walk through with your renovator
Most bathroom renovators love what they do, and want to show off their handiwork to the people we create it for, the client. So take a bit of a walk through with your renovator, ask as many questions as you like (how am I going to keep the grout clean? Are there any products I shouldn’t use on my new copper tub?) and check that every final detail is as you wanted it.

Stage the bathroom
Put in all your towels, your favourite shampoo and a gorgeous candle and look at the whole thing done and dusted, not just your new tiles or new shower head. Does that cheap body wash look totally out of place in your new luxury hotel bathroom? Use this as an opportunity to spoil yourself and buy something fitting for that new shower recess.

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Photos
Once your bathroom is staged, either take some photos yourself or maybe your bathroom renovator will want to come over and take some photos for their website. This is a great chance to show off the amazing new piece of your home, share how much you loved the renovators and the new tile you imported from Mexico. The reality is this is the best your bathroom will probably ever look, so take advantage of this opportunity!

northbridge-bathroom-15

Live with it and take notes
In the heat of the renovation and the joy of having a new space, it’s easy to miss little things like a chipped tile, or you suddenly realise that the mirror is totally off. It’s okay if these things happen, but don’t let it ruin your whole renovation experience. If it’s a small fault on the part of the renovator, 90% of the time they will be happy to come out and sort it out for you. If it’s a fitting that you decide simply isn’t right, get it fixed quickly so you can enjoy that new bathroom feeling as long as possible.

–Andrew Stenos is managing director of Sydney’s Integriti Bathrooms. If you are looking to upgrade your bathroom or simply redesign the space you have, Integriti Bathrooms want to help! Get in touch via the website and one of the team will be out to provide you with a completely obligation-free consultation.

All photography of Integriti Bathrooms projects.

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DIY RENO ADDICT

The five warning signs you’re about to overcapitalise

Imagine purchasing a property with the view of adding a second storey extension for the water views or extending out the back, only to later find out the local planning laws didn’t allow it. Or approaching selling agents for the property you’ve spent months renovating, only to hear the alarming news that the estimated selling price will barely cover costs, yet alone bring the tidy profit you were banking on. They’re expensive shocks that can be avoided with proper due diligence and research. Here are five mistakes you never want to make.

cherie-barber

1. Paying too much for the property

If you pay too much for a property to start with, you’ve thrown away the best chance you had to make a good profit. That $40,000 you overpaid will have to be clawed back somehow and it won’t be easy if you’re on a tight budget or the market plummets.

2. Ignoring a major buyer objection

A location on a busy main road, overhead power lines, right next door to an electricity substation or noisy school… they’re all “buyer objections.” And guess what? If you picked the property up for a bargain because other buyers didn’t want a bar of these turn-offs, you’ll be saddled with the same problem when you come to sell. No matter how gorgeous the renovation, the busy road will still be right out front.

3. Failing to detect a major defect

If you buy a house knowing it needs rewiring or a new roof, then you can factor in the repair costs. If you didn’t know about them, then it’s an unforeseen cost you’re going to have to wear and if the problem turns out to be major, that could run into tens of thousands of dollars. Before you can even begin the visible work that adds value, you’re going to have to spend a fortune on hidden but essential, remedial work. Always get the building report or pest and asbestos inspection done.

4. Incorrectly budgeting the renovation

In order to make money from renovating, you need to know upfront exactly how much you can spend on the renovation in order to make the profit you’re after and what the renovated property is likely to sell for, based on your market research. It’s a magic set of numbers that professional renovators and developers virtually carry in their head. A sure way to overcapitalise is to spend more on the property than it’s worth.

5. Choosing the wrong style of renovation for the area

A renovation you do in a suburb full of uni students is going to be quite different to the one you choose for a leafy family-orientated suburb. Different suburbs appeal to different demographics and you need to establish what demographic prevails in your suburb. This information is not hard to get. Doing a renovation that is completely out of step with the rest of the suburb will turn off buyers and may mean you’re spending money on things that don’t matter at the expense of ones that do. Do your research and make sure you tailor your renovation to your target market.

–Cherie Barber is the director of Renovating for Profit, a company that teaches everyday people how to buy and renovate properties for a profit.

Categories
Bathrooms RENO ADDICT

How to: Work with ugly plumbing

Image courtesy of Reece

By Laney Clancy

Being married to a plumber and working for a plumbing business, I know that plumbers consider a flushing toilet, clear drains and well-organised pipes a thing of beauty. But for everyone else, aesthetically plumbing scores very low on the design scale. Every property, big or small, old or new, has some plumbing feature that’s oddly placed or simply an eyesore. Here’s how to hide, complement or even enhance your plumbing to make it easier on the eye.

Image courtesy of Reece
Image courtesy of Reece

In the bathroom

Vanity units have long been the go-to solution to hide sink drain pipes but if your bathroom or powder room is too cramped you may not have room for one.

The cheapest and easiest solution is to paint the pipework. You can choose the same colour as the bathroom wall for camouflage, or choose a more decorative colour like black (just make sure you apply a PVC primer first). Another option in a natural or nautical themed bathroom is to wrap the pipes in a material like rope. The patina of copper is quite beautiful — in my home we have run copper water supply pipes against a background of a black wall. The pipes are narrow so don’t take up space and the contrast is striking.

You can also convert ugly waste traps (where the pipes bend, often in a U shape after their connection to the basin plughole) from the standard plastic white ones to shiny chrome or modern black ones.

Image courtesy of Reece
Image courtesy of Reece

If you have a budget to work with, consider a pedestal basin to contain the pipes but keep the bathroom’s sleek look. Ensure a plumber has access to the pipes though, just in case they need to be repaired.

Toilets are also unavoidable eyesores in the bathroom. A wall-hung toilet puts the cistern behind a wall but be aware this does compromise a plumber’s access for repairs in future. A close-coupled toilet is the next best option as it reduces the visual impact of the toilet while maintaining accessibility. Or distract with a feature wall or impressive wall tile that moves the eye away from the toilet.

Ventilation fans are never the most attractive thing in a bathroom and the best way to hide one is to ensure it’s the same colour as the ceiling to make it blend in. Or you can safely cover it with a decorative grate that can also be sprayed to match your ceiling colour. A more expensive option is to rearrange your lighting so the fan falls in shadow.

Image courtesy of Dan Kitchens
Image courtesy of Dan Kitchens

In the laundry

No matter how sleek your washing machine, its taps and tubes are always going to be aesthetically troublesome. With front loaders in particular, you can run the hoses behind a shelf or cupboard or under a benchtop to your sink to keep them out of.

If space is an issue, you may be able to put up a curtain or screen. Make it practical — a rod you can use to hang drying items can also support a curtain you can draw across to hide the plumbing when not in use for laundry. Hiding your laundry behind cupboard doors is another way to maintain a sleek look.

Image courtesy of Vertical Gardens Australia
Image courtesy of Vertical Gardens Australia

Outside

Rainwater collection tanks and hot water tanks are bulky and often unsightly but there are a few things you can do to hide it or make it a feature. Camouflage is one way to disguise a tank—you could paint it to match your house or fence colour. Other people simply acknowledge the tank for what it is and turn it into a feature, using it as a canvas for artwork for example.

If you have enough room, consider erecting a screen or encasement around it. There are a number of decorative screens available that draw the eye to the screen rather than what’s behind it. An encasement turns the tank into a closed area that you can treat like a shed – particularly handy if you need to keep children or pets out. If the screen or encasement can support a living wall (vertical garden) then this is a beautiful idea as the greenery from this distracts from the tank behind it.

Don’t forget the plumbing!

Plumbing is an essential part of a house and you can certainly be inventive about designing around eyesores. Don’t forget that these pipes, drains, tubes and tanks have a function first so your decorative efforts should not compromise plumbing operations. Also be aware that if a professional does need to repair something, you need to make sure the plumber can access the fixture.

Pretty plumbing? It is possible.

— Laney Clancy is the marketing and finance manager at Pipe Perfection Plumbers in Sydney. She is married to Darren, the owner of the business. Laney gets to talk to plumbers about plumbing and home maintenance a lot, and loves a good bathroom makeover.

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DIY RENO ADDICT

Cherie Barber’s 5 top tips for first time renovators

Renovating an old property is one of the most satisfying projects you can do, especially when it’s all finished and you have the creative satisfaction – and hopefully the financial rewards – of restoring a rough diamond to its sparkling best.

However, renovating can also be a minefield. You’re inevitably dealing with older properties, which will have ageing electricals and plumbing, possibly asbestos and almost definitely a range of unforeseen problems you’ll need to set aside extra time, money and patience to resolve. That’s why you should always allow a contingency of 10% for any budget.

Here are my top five tips for first-time renovators:

Target highly visible changes

First time renovators would be wise to cut their teeth on a small cosmetic renovation rather than launch straight into an ambitious structural renovation that could financially spiral out of control. Things like changing the flooring, updating lights and window furnishings, painting throughout, and modernising the kitchen and bathroom, can absolutely transform a property. And they’re quite manageable projects for first-timers as long as you’re highly disciplined with your budget and time management, and have a good team of tradies by your side (see my tips on how to find good tradies).

Before
Before

2583_49-53 Warialda St Koagah(2nd Shoot)_100_889

DIY vs outsourcing

DIY can be a great way to keep costs down on a renovation, but you have to be selective about what you take on yourself and what you outsource. Dodgy work is easy to spot, and will likely be picked up by potential buyers, so rather than save money, you could actually devalue your property. Tradies will tell you that Monday is usually their busiest time, as weekend DIYers swamp them with requests to fix botched projects. Unless you’re an experienced handyperson equipped with a good set of tools (otherwise there’s more money blown on purchasing or hiring tools), then perhaps limit yourself to the more straightforward jobs, like painting. And NEVER attempt to do any plumbing or electrical work yourself. It’s not only illegal, but highly risky.

Beware asbestos

Any property built or renovated before 1987 potentially has asbestos somewhere. It was commonly used as wall linings, and externally, on eaves, roofs, fences and as wall cladding. DIY renovators must educate themselves about where it’s typically found and what to do if they suspect there’s asbestos present. I’m an ambassador for the Asbestos Awareness campaign and have made a video that specifically explains where to look for asbestos in older properties.

Retain, recycle, re-use

Even though the first instinct might be to demolish, you’ll save money – and help the environment – by instead looking at what could be recycled or retained. If you’re pulling up old brick pavers from the front of the house, think about whether you could re-use them out the back. Plants can easily be moved rather than pulled up and discarded. If you can’t re-use your old roof tiles, put an ad on Gumtree and give someone else the opportunity to. Even if you don’t make money on the transaction, you’ll save on skip costs.

Cosmetically refresh

On the subject of retain and re-use, you’ll save big dollars on kitchens and bathrooms by doing a “cosmetic refresh” of surfaces, rather than ditching the lot and starting from scratch. There are specialty products for everything from painting tiles, cabinetry and benchtops, to giving old appliances the stainless steel paint treatment. White Knight and Rust-Oleum have a range of products specifically for sprucing up old bathrooms and kitchens.

Before
Before

RUSE KITCHEN- 7

–Cherie Barber is the director of Renovating for Profit, a company that teaches everyday people how to buy and renovate properties for a profit. 

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Bathrooms Design Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

How to: choose a bathroom renovator

Image source: Integriti Bathrooms

Choosing to get your bathroom renovated is a big decision. It is going to increase the value of your house, absolutely, but it is also going to disrupt your life for a few weeks, as you demolish and rebuild this room.  So it is important that you choose the right person for the job and end up with your dream bathroom at the end of the process.

But how do you know what to look for in a renovator?

Check out their work: If you were going to go and buy a couch, but you looked in their showroom window and didn’t see anything you liked, would you still buy a couch from that store? Probably not. If the bathroom renovator you are looking at doesn’t have any projects that make you sigh out loud with happiness, then they probably aren’t the guys for you. Looking through their portfolio of work, case studies, or even visiting a past job, you should absolutely love the look and finishes of the bathrooms you come across. Even if it is not quite your personal taste or style, you should be able to appreciate layout, functionality, quality and finish.

Image source: Integriti Bathrooms
Image source: Integriti Bathrooms

Review pricing: Does the renovator in question only ever talk about high end luxury bathrooms that cost way over what you can afford? Are they only ever talking about budget finishes and cheap cabinetry? Make sure that the bathroom renovator is on the same page you are – whether you can afford a luxury bathroom or not. If you look at their work and see luxury homes but know you have a tight budget, then it is likely that they wont be able to help you at your price point. Alternatively, if they are focussed on producing cheap, serviceable bathrooms but don’t do the luxury Art Deco-inspired bathroom you are dreaming of, then they probably aren’t going to be able to deliver on that look. Make sure you are up front and clear with your budget it will not be an issues or bargaining but will help guide you both to provide realistic solutions.

Image source: Integriti Bathrooms
Image source: Integriti Bathrooms

Check out their process:  How does this renovator work? Do you just turn up the next day and you have a demolished bathroom? What is their design process like and how does it all come together? When asking for a quote, do you feel like they are communicating with you clearly, or is it very sporadic? All of these questions (especially at an early stage) offer you a tiny insight into what it will be like working with these renovators. If you’re not happy with the level of communication or knowledge of what will happen when, then maybe you need to speak to someone else.

Check out online reviews:  One of the biggest benefits of social media is that it’s a completely open platform for people to share their experiences. If people have a really great experience or a really terrible experience, chances are it will be shared online. So go and check out what people are saying – a review isn’t going to be indicative of every experience with a particular renovator, but if there are heaps of complaints or heaps of glowing reviews, the chances are pretty good that that will be your experience too.

Lindfield Bathroom0107
Image source: Integriti Bathrooms

–Andrew Stenos is managing director of leading Sydney bathroom renovation company, Integriti Bathrooms and one of our Resident Experts. Integriti Bathrooms have a great showcase of bathroom makeovers online to inspire you, ranging from affordable to luxury.

More about Andrew 

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Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

How to keep things clean during a renovation

Renovating a home can be a stressful process, especially when dealing with the chaos of noise and debris and the panic of keeping your precious belongings from harm. Preparation is key when keeping your space clean during a renovation.

RA keeping clean during renovation construction
Image: Alair

Remove everything
The first thing to do is remove absolutely everything (including rugs, curtains, furniture and small goods) and place them in an isolated area or off-site in a storage facility. Consider it like a contamination spill you’re trying to desperately control.

Controlling dust and debris
Dust and dirt is going to become your worst enemy throughout your renovation – limit the spread with these tips:

  • In the case of renovating a smaller space such as the kitchen or living area, it’s best that you remove everything to another area. If you’re living in the space whilst renovating then it’s essential to quarantine the renovation and workspace. By using thick plastic and construction tape you can effectively contain the area to limit the amount of debris that is spread. You’re still able to have access to the area, but remember, the more you go into it, the more likely you are to spread dust and dirt.
  • Dust usually comes out of ceilings and walls and due to it being extremely fine, it becomes quite difficult to contain. Make sure that you have adequate ventilation.
  • Often people think it’s fine to have the windows open with the flyscreens still attached. This is a big no. Flyscreens can get dirty easily, as dust and debris are blown through by breezes – they act as a filter and become difficult to clean.  Alternatively, it’s better to remove the flyscreens and ventilate the area without using the screen as dust-catchers.

RA keeping clean during renovation shell
Image: Slotegraaf

Covering items
If the renovated space holds any heavy, bulky items, you should cover them with thick plastic and construction tape, if possible, and make sure there are no crevasses or cracks for dust to filter through.

Many people think cupboard doors will stop dust going through, but sadly not! When getting tiling done or your floor sanded, it’s important to make sure that the items in your cupboards are sealed up.

Create a boardwalk
Once items are removed and the renovated space is isolated, create a pathway for people, especially tradesman, who wear protective  footwear, to use when walking through the area. You can use gaffer tape and cardboard, ply or even drop sheets to create a walkway, to ensure no damage is done the existing floors or carpet.

Daily clean up
In order to manage and reduce the build-up of mess, it’s best to keep on top of it on a daily basis. Vacuuming is great, but not with a standard vacuum cleaner as construction debris and dust can often be too overwhelming to collect. Unless you have an old vacuum that you don’t mind damaging, consider hiring a construction vacuum for the project duration.

Be nice to your tradies
Contrary to popular belief, most tradesmen want to do a good job and clean up after themselves, so make it easy for them. Give them a quick introduction of where you want all the debris to go, give them a skip and show them where the waste goes. For example, if a tiler comes to work for you, give them an appropriate space to work, ensure they have power and ideally have them cut materials outside – in the shade ideally and out of the rain.

By setting a tradesman up for success – by providing them with power, an ideal spot to cut and clearly indicating where you want them to store their materials and waste – you will set yourself up for a smooth and successful home renovation.

Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. Want to be a home stager? Attend the 2016 Home Staging Symposium in Sydney this June!

Ask Naomi a question | Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

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Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

How to make your reno as fast as possible

You’re finally at the construction stage after months, probably years of designing layouts and saving money. It’s an exciting time because your project is about to be realised. However, to make sure your renovation is as successful and fast as possible, you need a strict plan that has a few key considerations.

RA how to make your reno as quick as possible exterior

Image: Apartment Therapy

Trades – their order and how much time they require
In order to ensure your renovation begins and ends on time, you need to determine the order in which each tradesman comes in.  It’s necessary to create a timeline outlining the length of time each trade will take, what days they come in, and what should be completed in the given time.  Make sure that you leave yourself a little room between trades – a buffer of a day between each stage of the renovation will allow you to adapt and tweak the schedule when there are unforeseen delays.

Before a renovation starts, it’s important to schedule all trades at estimated dates, confirm with them and continue to keep them in the loop once the project begins. For instance, once you become aware that a task is moved forward or is held back, it’s necessary to contact all trades and ensure they’re able to work on the new dates.

It could certainly be seen as a lot of communication, emails, calls and texts, but it will make the process significantly smoother for both you and your trades.

Never wait on deliveries
Numerous aspects can slow down the renovation process but waiting for deliveries is one that can completely cease construction – an example is waiting on tiles to arrive.

It’s important to make sure all materials are on site ready for the trade to start work. Alternatively, you can store deliveries on another property or at a storage shed for quick retrieval when they are required.

Being on top of your suppliers and the coordination of their ordering and delivery to site will save time and money.

RA how to make your reno as quick as possible indoor outdoor livingImage: Eco Outdoor

Identify custom orders early
One aspect that can be significantly derailing for a renovation is waiting for custom orders to be made and delivered. For example, in some cases, where you are keeping the existing window sizes, windows may need to be custom made.  This can take from five to eight weeks depending on your location, the supplier and the time of year the order is made.

Or in the instance where a door or window needs to be measured to an opening, you must prioritise creating the aperture early on in the renovation, which will allow you to get a measure and order submitted ASAP. Planning is key here!

Be hands on and on your game
It’s simple – a clean site is a productive site. Tradesmen will work faster when they’re not working through mess.

Keeping an eye on progress and asking questions will allow you to make sure things are running smoothly and to plan. You are then able to arrange times with your trades more effectively and get the job done quicker.

RA how to make your reno as quick as possible exterior living

Image: One Kin Design

Support your trades
Organisation is the key to success! The more your tradesmen know, the more they’ll be able to discuss with you and work faster to complete the tasks.

Any plans, notes, to-do lists, final construction plans and almost anything else one will ever need to know about the renovation should be at their disposal. You could laminate these documents and stick them to a wall of the renovation space for easy access. You could also use plastic sleeves to store documents at the site for quick referral. These processes mean that tradesmen don’t have to wait on you to get additional information.

Another useful tip to hasten the process is meeting tradesmen on site on the first day to go through instructions. Make sure your tradesmen have adequate facilities too. That means having a portable toilet if necessary, so they don’t have to leave the site on bathroom breaks.

It’s also essential that rubbish is removed regularly and appropriately. For example, if a demolition was halted due to a skip being full then it needs to be replaced or emptied ASAP.

Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. Want to be a home stager? Attend the 2016 Home Staging Symposium in Sydney this June!

Ask Naomi a question | Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

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RENO ADDICT

Find a tradie instantly with the new TradeSearch web app

Engaging tradies can be one of the most unpleasant parts of renovating but we’re pleased to report that there’s a game-changer in town. Like Uber for homeowners and renovators, the recently launched TradeSearch web app allows you to connect with qualified tradies in real time and on demand. Not only can you find out their availability instantly, you can also check out the quality of their work and their hourly rates too. We love!!

TRADESMAN PROFILE

Tradesman profile

The app is ideal for those needing someone fast (ie. a flooded bathroom), but we love the transparency factor also – not only does the app help you immediately find a tradie that is close by and who can work when you need them, you can also find out their hourly rate in an instant. The review feature is great too as you can check out tradie ratings and compare trades by photo, service description, qualifications and hourly rates before securing a price that fits within your budget. It’s obviously a much more efficient way of engaging contractors than spending all day on the phone.

“When you hire a contractor, you’re engaging a stranger to come to your house. If I were overseas, and my wife who is at home needed someone straight away, I could hop on to the app, input what I need, and pay the person I choose. My wife wouldn’t need to do anything except open the door,” says the TradeSearch web app developer Joseph Mancuso.

The app is used to make bookings and secure payments too. Payment options include PayPal, stripe, credit card or cash and the app tracks the trade’s time spent on site which allows you to verify charges before making payment. Like Uber, payment is made instantly so it means tradesmen don’t have to chase outstanding bills either. It’s a win, win!

See here for more.

 

 

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Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

What to consider when renovating in a strata building

There are numerous factors to consider when renovating within a strata building, as opposed to a private property or house. A strata building in a residential area can be a unit or apartment complex, townhouse, villa or duplex.

RA renovating in a strata building bathroom

Image: Pinterest

Strata approval
Before making any renovations to the structure of a building, including the walls, ceilings, balconies, pipes, ducts and services, it is crucial you consult with the strata about these changes. These alterations won’t only affect you, but those that live around you.

Changes to floor coverings
Many multi-storey or high-rise buildings have strata conditions or by-laws in place to control the acoustic properties of how the floor can be used, the thickness of the flooring and issues surrounding the acoustic insulation and noise transmission. To avoid any issues, its important to consult with the strata and get your flooring choice cleared before construction – it’s also the neighbourly thing to do.

Differences on the outside
We all desire to make changes to make our home more aesthetically and functionally pleasing. However, you need to consider how changes to your unit and property will look from the outside and might affect others. Simple changes such as installing private screenings or shutters on windows for heat insulation or privacy need to be considered from a strata perspective.

RA renovating in a strata building kitchen and dining

Image: Pinterest

Do you need approval before making changes to a strata building?
So you don’t fall into any legal perils, its important that you get a copy of your building’s by-laws and review them to find out whether your renovations need to be altered or can be passed.

Documentation is important
When completing any renovation it is best to keep a copy of all documentation and receipts for future need. Keeping a copy of council approvals and/or certifications is necessary for strata, as they will want to see them before any construction takes place. Don’t wait until the last moment to get these – plan in advance!

Access to noise and rubbish removal
It’s necessary for your tradesmen to have access to a good work area and dispose of waste easily. Unlike on a single dwelling, having portable toilets, skip bins and allowing tradesmen to work on the front and back yard isn’t so easy in a strata building. Due to the space, structure and surrounding people, there is a different level of complexity.

Maintaining and controlling rubbish removal can be especially difficult. How do I get permission for a skip bin? Where do I put it? How does it not block the driveway?  These questions arise frequently, but there are a few solutions to help with the problem. Thankfully, fabric skip bins are now available that can be craned over a verandah or stored in the garage. Tradesmen can arrange access. For large renovations, a demolition shoot will need to be planned from the window/verandah of the complex, which dumps the debris in the skip. Approval needs to be sourced as the process involves, not only the shoot, but also the permission of the person whose land is used to place the skip.

Noise
Noise during construction can be annoying for some residents. But if you are respectful and working within your limits then you are starting from a good position. It’s important to check state laws regarding noise control in an urban or residential area. More specifically, check what applies to your specific building. This will let you make sure the construction occurs during a certain time and that online power tools are permitted. Hopefully then you can enjoy your renovations and not worry about being the noisy neighbour.

Amenities in-check
Tradesmen are people too and need access to a toilet onsite. It’s your job to find out where the nearest toilet is for them and gain approval for a portable one if needed.

RA renovating in a strata building lounge room

Image: Pinterest

Working areas for trades
When renovating a building in a strata environment, tradesmen don’t often get the luxury of working on a driveway or front yard, which can be difficult when it comes to the preparation of the renovation. You need to consider that a work area needs to be created and that you might not only be vacating the renovation area but an adjacent one as a work area.

All that cutting, sawing and grinding inside will create a cacophony of a mess, but it’s fairly unavoidable. You need to weigh up the choices. Would you rather a tradesman walking to and from a building to grab materials outside (taking up a lot of time) as opposed to one big construction clean up at the end of the renovation.

Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. Want to be a home stager? Attend the 2016 Home Staging Symposium in Sydney this June!

Ask Naomi a question | Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

Categories
Architecture Design RENO ADDICT

7 tips for first-time renovators

Reasons for renovating are wide and varied. Maybe you’re thinking about renovating to accommodate for a growing family. Perhaps you’re renovating a recently purchased home to modernise it and make it feel a bit more like you. Or maybe you’re renovating simply to increase the value of your property.

1

Whatever your reason, we can all agree that the thought process behind renovating and visualising the final result is really exciting, but truth be told, the renovating process can be extremely stressful.

If you take the time to plan and approach your renovation with a realistic and positive attitude, some of this stress can be alleviated. So here are 7 helpful tips for first-time renovators.

1. Make a realistic wish list

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In the age of Pinterest and instagram where inspiration is free, never-ending and completely addictive, it can be really hard to stay focused, understand what’s possible and differentiate between what you want and what you really need.

Sure, inspiration is important, but remember not to get too carried away. Start with the practical basics and what makes financial sense and then look at what else you can afford.

2. Educate yourself

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Don’t ever walk into a renovation without doing some background research first. Do as much reading as you can and educate yourself on all aspects of the job at hand. If you do this, you’ll firmly place yourself in the driving seat and find yourself more adept at selecting materials, hiring the right trades and asking the right questions throughout the job process.

3. Work out what work you really need done

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Tackle each room or area with separate research, notes and lists of what needs to be fixed, removed, added or replaced so you can start to put together a plan and budget.

There is absolutely no hurt in asking around, so speak to trades and speak to friends who’ve renovated before to get an idea of whether your inspirations are possible and if you have the budget for it. The last thing you want is to be undertaking unnecessary work that eats into your budget.

4. Set a realistic budget

You need to be able to actually afford your renovation. Make sure you get at least three quotes for any job in your home and account for the possibility of any job costing 10 to 20 percent more due to unanticipated work or blown-out timelines.

Remember that costs can change significantly depending on what materials and specifications you choose. One kitchen renovation can cost $10,000 while another of the same size can cost $20,000. This also applies to home extensions, bathrooms, decks and other renovations, so remember to take time to go over all the finer details, because not doing so can be extremely costly.

5. Make sure you pick the right trades for your job

Picking the right trade is essential in ensuring your renovation goes smoothly. Make sure that whoever you pick is licensed, insured, holds a current ABN and has the right experience to do your job.

Ask for examples of previous work and look at hiring trades with particular expertise for any specialised work that needs to be done. For example, an electrician who specialises in home automation compared to an electrician who doesn’t have that particular skillset.

Another important factor is professionalism. If your trades operate professionally and respect their clients than they’re more likely to work collaboratively with you to produce amazing results.

6. Review your quotes

Remember that a quote is by no means a legally binding contract, so study them carefully and make sure they include everything you need. While one quote might be cheaper, it may be because it’s missing something important that has been added to a quote that is a little more expensive. Don’t accept an incomplete quote, and if the quote isn’t itemised, ask questions. A trade that you’ll want to deal with will work with you to ensure that you’re both on the same page.

7. Make a plan

5

We all know Rome wasn’t built in a day, and same goes for your home extension, so keep in mind that it’s wise to plan ahead because your day-to-day existence is going to be disrupted by your renovation.

Make sure you speak to your builder or trade about the project’s scope and how much it will disrupt your day-to-day routine. Great trades will try to work with you and around your schedule, but for more complex jobs, you may even need to move out temporarily. So plan ahead and budget for these circumstances.

– Samantha Thorne is content marketer at hipages.com.au, Australia’s number one site to hire tradies and the perfect place to get quotes for your home renovation.

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DIY RENO ADDICT

How to check your tradie’s credentials before hiring them

Image source: Jet Force Plumbing Services

If you’re looking to hire a tradesman, whether it be a plumber, electrician or just a handyman to repair something broken, it’s important that you choose carefully.

The best tradie for the job will be appropriately qualified, licensed, professional and have a reputation for producing great work. Being discerning in your choice will help you get work done on time, well and at a good price.

Image source: Jet Force Plumbing Services
Image source: Jet Force Plumbing Services

To help you hire the right tradie for the job, you need to ask the right questions. Here are four key factors to consider.

Are they legitimate?

An ABN or Australian Business Number is issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and helps businesses to identify one another. While it’s not mandatory for a tradie to have an ABN, it makes it easy for anyone to verify their business. The ATO database will enable you to see when the business was registered and whether that registration is still valid.

Are they licensed?

Most tradesmen in the building sector require a license to perform work in your customer’s home and have to hold a qualification to be awarded the license in the first place.

Trade licences are not as black and white as they might seem though, so be careful. Licensing of trades is done on a state-by-state basis, with each state having slightly different requirements. Some licences for builders, plumbers, electricians and gas fitters are licensed nationwide. Other tradesmen such as painters, are not required to hold a licence in every state.

To navigate through the confusion, searching online will quickly tell you whether your potential electrician/carpenter/tiler/landscaper needs a licence where you live. To check if theirs is valid you can look online or simply just ask to see it with your own eyes. If they push back on providing documentation then your alarm bells should really be ringing.

Are they covered?

It’s absolutely vital that the tradie you choose is covered by the correct insurance policy. Public liability insurance is compulsory and will protect you against third party injuries and property damage caused by the contractor. Without public liability insurance, they may not be able to pay for the damage, replacement or repair.

So it’s of the utmost importance that you check their insurance is current and valid, before allowing them to commence work in your home.

What’s the word on the street?

One of the best ways so check a tradie’s reputation, workmanship and professionalism, is to see what their past clients have said about them. Search their business online and look for testimonials or online recommendations. This will give you an idea of how they operate, and if you notice an alarming number of negative reviews, it would be best advised to steer clear!

Carefully considering all of these factors and asking the right questions upfront can ensure that you choose the right tradie for your home improvement needs, while avoiding any possible disappointment or disputes.

–Johanna Seton is a home improvement expert from hipages.com.au, Australia’s largest online marketplace for hiring home improvement professionals 

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RENO ADDICT

NSW home renovations now cheaper than national average

Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz

Living in Sydney you get a lot of perks, beautiful beaches, a one-of-a-kind harbour, a bustling city and the list goes on. But you do get one huge disadvantage, everything is ridiculously expensive! So I must say, I was shocked to hear that the cost of renovating your home in NSW, is actually less than the national average. Finally, something goes our way!

Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz
Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz

The Renovation Consumer Price Index (RCPI), a quarterly report released by ServiceSeeking.com.au, found the cost of renovating in NSW has increased by 2.5% year-on-year compared to the national average of 3.8%. Analysing 52,000 quotes submitted by tradesman on the website, the latest RCPI compared the cost of renovating in the fourth quarter of 2015’s financial year versus the prior year.

Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz
Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz

While renovation costs for NSW homeowners have increased, average hourly rates remain 1% lower than the nation’s average ($59.77/hr vs. $60.56/hr). “Other states are in the grip of an even greater skills shortage than New South Wales,” says CEO of ServiceSeeking.com.au, Jeremy Levitt. “For example, Western Australia and Victoria”.

To support the release of the RCPI, ServiceSeeking.com.au has created an interactive map that plots price changes across 10 popular renovation services in New South Wales year on year (check it out here). “We believe the current shortage of skilled tradesman has resulted in price increases across most renovation industries,” explains Jeremy. “The interactive map highlights the effect of this by industry.”

Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz
Home reno. Photo credit: Houzz

However, there are still plenty of renovation bargains still to be had, the largest savings were found in flooring services, which fell 15% quarter-on-quarter. Concreters dropped their prices by 7%, while hiring an electrician and plumber became cheaper by 2% and 1% respectively.

With more than 1.7 million jobs listed on ServiceSeeking.com.au to date and over 6 million quotes compared, the company’s latest findings provide a strong indication of renovation costs around Australia.