Embarking on a home renovation project can be as exciting as it is daunting. Whether you're revamping your kitchen, adding an extra room, replastering, or giving your entire house a facelift, one thing remains constant: the need for engaging someone who will be able to bring your vision to life. Whether it's a farm, a holiday home, or our family home, here in Gippsland, property maintenance and renovations are common projects I get asked about. We all know the importance of recommendations, they always provide powerful social proof. But there are three other very important considerations to make sure you don't overlook when researching who you will appoint to work on any work on your home, farm or business.
1. Qualifications: The Backbone of Expertise
Imagine you're feeling under the weather. Would you trust a chef to diagnose and treat your ailment? Unlikely! Just as you'd seek a qualified doctor for medical issues, the same principle applies to home renovations. Carpenters are the backbone of many projects, wielding their expertise to shape and mold your living spaces. But it doesn't stop there. Electricians, plumbers, asbestos removalists each play a vital role in the grand symphony of renovation. But we still go back to that word: qualified. Did you know there are many unqualified people conducting renovation projects within Victoria? In fact a builder I know calls Victoria “the wild west”, as he has seen first hand how untrained people are doing building work.
To quote my wise wife “there is a reason why it takes 4 years or longer to become qualified”. That solid foundation over multiple projects and multiple years is simply not there when you appoint someone who is just handy with their hands.
So when choosing trades people in West and South Gippsland, don't be shy to ask for evidence of their qualifications. It's like checking the credentials of your trusted doctor (they often showcase them in their room, right?), or making sure your accountant is actually truly an accountant – take it upon you to ensure they're equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver the construction or property maintenance work you’re requesting. Afterall, were often dealing with high value assets when it comes to construction work.
2. Insurance: Shielding Your Investment
Just as car insurance protects you on the road, opting for professionals with appropriate insurance safeguards your home renovation investment. Accidents or the unforeseeable can happen to even the most prepared, qualified, experienced trades professional in Gippsland. That is why we have the option as carpenters, plasterers, tradespeople to purchase insurances that will protect you and us, in the unforeseeable event of something going wrong. So ask yourself, does the person you are putting (potentially your largest asset) have the insurance and right coverage needed to shield you from potential financial burdens?
So, before signing any contracts, ensure your chosen professionals are adequately insured. Similar to qualifications, if we have insurance, we will have the paperwork to prove it, so don’t be afraid to ask to see it. It’s your home, your right. Trades and builder insurance is like having a safety net beneath your tightrope walk – it offers peace of mind..
3. Communication: The Glue Holding It Together
I know our industry has a reputation for not returning calls, answering emails, and not turning up when we should. But simply put: there is no excuse for poor communication. Full stop!
Effective communication is the glue that holds any property maintenance or renovation project together, ensuring everyone is on the same page. From discussing timelines and budget constraints to addressing concerns and revisions, transparent communication is key. So, take note of the communication habits of the tradespeople you’re asking to quote for projects, and think to yourself if you are genuinely comfortable with it. One thing I also appreciate as a tradesperson is for you to be clear what good communication looks like for you. We are all different, so what do you want and expect? Having an open and candid discussion about this upfront helps eliminate misunderstandings and sets up any renovation or small project up for harmonious collaboration.
In conclusion, prioritising qualifications, insurance, and communication when it comes to selecting who you will appoint to do your property maintenance, small building or larger home renovation projects in South Gippsland. Remember: choose wisely, invest in excellence, and watch your building or renovation project come to life.
About Me
Hi, I am Joel, Owner and Chief-Doer at Edge Property Improvements. I am both a qualified carpenter and a qualified plasterer, and fully insured, and have worked on many construction projects from full house builds, full house renovations (literally gutted, strengthened and rebuilt with new materials, as well as all sorts of smaller projects: New room installations, new decking, pergolas, verandas, sheds, fixing holes in walls etc.
Feel free to call me or complete our online form to discuss your property maintenance or renovation project.
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