If you are transferring into a new home, plumbing renovation is often a good investment. Clearly, a good plumbing system in your home eases you of future hassles and unexpected costs when your pipes clog or breakdown. When you transfer into an old house, the plumbing system has been used and worn out; hence, it is a good idea to make the necessary plumbing renovations.

When you do, check out these great tips to help you plan ahead.

1. CHECK THE LAYOUT

You have to review and evaluate your home’s floor plan so you can determine whether the ideas you have will optimally use the space in your home.  You may ask some help from the experts so you can understand and properly layout and design the features of your plumbing system before starting the project.

2. NOTIFY YOUR NEIGHBOURS

Be polite and inform your neighbours about your renovation plans.  It could be very noisy and may irritate or disturb the people living around you, so giving them a heads up is very respectful.  You should also consider limiting the working hours between 9am to 5pm, as this is a basic work time for everyone.

3. APPLY FOR PERMITS

Before you even start, research the permits you need and file your paperwork with your local jurisdiction to avoid future violations.

4. BE WARY OF YOUR HOME MEASUREMENTS

Make sure you’re aware of the exact measurements in your home before purchasing furniture and appliances, especially those that will be used directly using your plumbing system.

5. DON’T SACRIFICE QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

We may always be tempted to get cheap materials and labour thinking that they function just the same with the pricier ones.  Don’t short-change your plumbing system, as this is one of the most important components of your home that will make your life truly comfortable.  It need not be expensive but if you notice that the quality is obviously inferior, then go for the best ones.  Cheap labour is also not a good idea, as it may lead to poor service and create disasters in the future.

6. CHOOSE A REPUTABLE PLUMBING CONTRACTOR

There’s plenty of 24 hour emergency plumbing service available but not everyone fits the bill. After finalising your plumbing system plan, look for a professional plumber who has great feedback and recommendation from family, friends, and even from other customers. Check out also if they have complete licenses and insurances, and ask for their credentials.

7. CREATE A BUDGET BUT WITH CONTINGENCY

You and your contractor will work around your budget, so it is best to set this and include it in the planning. The contractor must know how much you are willing to spend so that they won’t go overboard and pick out the right materials for you.  If you don’t do this, you will likely overspend.  It is also great to spare a few bucks for contingency.

8. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Renovations are not perfect. There will be bumps along the way, so you must learn to remain calm. It is normal that at some point, some of the specifications that you asked for are no longer possible. Learn to let it go and embrace the alternative solutions, as long as they are still in your best interest.

9. KNOW YOUR LIMITATIONS

From the beginning, you must already understand what is achievable or not.  This will help manage your disappointments.  Sometimes, things will not exactly go as planned, so it is very important that you already know the limitations of your space right from the start.  It will also help you avoid spending on something that is not even allowed or possible in your space.

We hope these tips will help provide you with extra knowledge before you start your plumbing renovation.