Most people who live in high-rise apartments have, at one time or another, experienced the inconvenience of renovations. Whether it’s the sound of drilling and hammering that goes on all day, or the fact that your kitchen is now located in the living room (may not be applicable to everyone), there’s no doubt that these projects can be a pain and disruptive.
In this blog post, we will give you a general overview of what to expect during your high-rise apartment renovations.
1. There are strict and specific guidelines to adhere to when it comes to high-rise apartment renovations
Anyone who’s ever been through a renovation knows that there are a lot of things to think about- from choosing the right contractor to picking out the perfect paint colour. But if you live in a high-rise apartment, there’s one more thing to add to your list: making sure that your renovation adheres to the building’s strict guidelines.
These guidelines exist for a reason: to protect the safety of residents and preserve the aesthetic of the building. So before you start tearing down walls or choosing new countertops, be sure to consult your building’s guidelines. Otherwise, you may end up having to redo your entire renovation- and no one wants that.
2. No structural changes are allowed
If you’re planning on making any structural changes to your apartment- like knocking down walls or adding new windows- you’ll need to get prior approval from the building. This is because these changes can affect the stability of the structure as a whole.
You cannot make changes to common areas in the building either. If some minor changes are allowed, expect the project’s scope to be limited and very specific.
Some things that you might be able to change are light fixtures, cabinet hardware, flooring, and appliances–to name a few. Keep in mind that these alterations are not part of the building’s foundation or framework so you may need permission from your manager before making changes.
To be on the safe side and avoid costly mistakes, always check with your building’s management about what kinds of changes are allowed before starting any renovation project.
3. Notify and communicate with your neighbours
There’s no doubt that high-rise apartment renovations can be disruptive, especially to your neighbours. The constant noise and traffic in the hallways can be a major annoyance. That’s why it’s important to notify and communicate with your neighbours before starting any renovation project.
Renovating a high-rise apartment is a big undertaking. Despite the challenges, the end result of a refreshed and updated space makes it all worth it.
Give them a heads-up about what to expect in terms of noise level, duration of the project, and any other pertinent information. It’s also a good idea to provide them with your contact information in case they have any questions or concerns. In some cases, your building may require you to post a notice in the lobby or hallways about the upcoming renovation. This is usually done a few weeks before the project is set to begin.
4. Expect disruptions to your daily routine and additional expenses
Renovations can be disruptive to your daily routine, whether it’s limited access to certain areas of the building or having to deal with noise on a daily basis. And let’s not forget about the added expenses- from hiring a contractor to purchasing new furniture and decor for your refreshed space.
While these inconveniences and expenses may be a hassle in the short term, the end result will be worth it. After all, you’ll have a beautiful and updated space to call home. Just remember to plan ahead and consider all of these potential disruptions before starting your high-rise apartment renovation. Money is the number one reason for project delays or cancelations, so make sure you have a solid budget in place and stick to it.
5. You may have to vacate your unit during construction
Depending on the scope of your renovation project, you may have to temporarily vacate your unit during construction. This is especially true for larger projects like adding a new bathroom or changing the layout of your apartment.
If this is the case, make sure to plan ahead and find alternative accommodations for yourself and any roommates or family members. Your building’s management may be able to assist with finding temporary housing options. This means additional expenses and potential disruptions, but it is necessary for the safety of you and the construction workers.
It’s also important to properly secure and protect your belongings during construction, as there is a higher risk of damage in an empty unit. Work with your contractor and building management to ensure proper safety measures are in place before vacating the unit for construction.
Final Thoughts
Renovating a high-rise apartment is a big undertaking that requires money, careful planning, and communication. From obtaining approval from building management to communicating with your neighbours, there are several important steps to take before starting the renovation project.
Expect potential disruptions to your daily routine and additional expenses, and be prepared to possibly vacate your unit during construction. Despite these challenges, the end result of a refreshed and updated space will make it all worth it. Good luck with your high-rise apartment renovation!