Improving how you live in your Toronto home renovation company, whether it’s a condo in Downtown, semi detached townhouse in midtown or bungalow in North York can elevate the value of your property and improve how you live.
Pre-Renovation Planning
Before you engage a contractor, or purchasing materials, make sure you have the foundation to ensure a smooth renovation.
Define Your Project Goals
What do you want to renovate? (Kitchen and basement, bathroom, or the whole home)
- Which are the must-haves and. desirable items?
- Are you looking to upgrade for resales or long-term care?
Set a Realistic Budget
Include design costs permits, design fees, materials and even labor
Put aside 10-20% of your contingency to cover unexpected events (especially for old Toronto homes)
Research the Market
Find out the current costs of renovation in Toronto
Get ideas via Houzz, Pinterest, or real estate listings
Assess Your Home’s Condition
Check for evidence of structural problems or asbestos, wiring for knobs and tubes or foundation cracks.
Plan a home inspection in case you are unsure
Permits, Design & Planning
Toronto has strict bylaws, zoning regulations, and permit requirements–especially for older or heritage properties.
Check Permit Requirements
Make an application through Toronto Building Services for a renovation that involves:
- Structural modifications
- Electrical or plumbing alterations
- Decks, extensions or basement raising
- Door or window changes in historic areas
A tip: You may require an zoning review as well as Committee of Adjustment approval for significant additions.
Create Design Plans
- Employ a designer or architect to create aesthetic or structural designs
- Develop floorplans that are detailed as well as 3D renderings when possible.
- Choose the materials and finishes, fixtures and appliances ahead of time
Get Condo Board Approval (if applicable)
Submit the details of your renovation along with contractor insurance and the work schedule to be approved
Pay attention to noise, access and elevator rules
Hiring the Right Team
Selecting qualified professionals is essential for compliance and quality.
Hire a Licensed Contractor
Check insurance coverage, WSIB coverage, and the names of your references
Request a contract in writing along with a timeline and a payment plan
Get Multiple Quotes
Review the scope of work in detail
Be cautious of low bids, as they may be cut-rate or not have the proper insurance
During Construction
The process of active renovation will require co-ordination and communication.
Prepare the Space
- Furniture and other valuables
- Be sure to protect areas that aren’t affected by covering them with plastic
- Make a plan for temporary arrangements for living (if required)
Follow Worksite Safety & Access Rules
- Make sure you have the required city permits
- Check that the site is clean and organized, and secure
Keep in touch with your Contractor
- Check-ins and updates are scheduled for weekly or every other week.
- Monitor progress in relation to the time line
- Change orders must be approved in writing
Post-Renovation Wrap-Up
After the construction is completed, ensure that everything is in order in a safe and secure manner, and that everything is recorded.
Conduct a Final Walkthrough
Make a list of deficiencies (repairs and touch-ups)
Check that all fixtures, lighting as well as outlets and appliances function properly
Demand Final Inspections (if permits are involved)
City inspectors must be able to approve structural or electrical work
Make sure you have an Certificate of Occupancy (if you are required to have one)
Gather Documentation
Make sure you keep receipts, permits, warranties and manuals
Ask for a maintenance manual if you have one.
Clean & Reoccupy
Deep clean or contract the post-renovation cleaning services
- Place furniture back into
- Celebrate your new space!
Optional: Apply for Rebates & Tax Credits
Toronto and Ontario provide incentives to upgrade their energy efficiency which include:
- Enbridge offers rebates on the insulation of heat pumps and windows
- City of Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program (HELP)
- Federal Greener Home Credit (up to $40,000, interest-free)
- Check out toronto.ca for current programs.
Final Thoughts
A successful renovation begins with a clear plan. If you follow the steps in this list, Toronto homeowners can:
- Avoid common mistakes
- Keep within your the budget
- Make sure that the code is in conformance
- Get lasting, high-quality results
Do you need expert advice on the planning of your Toronto remodeling project?
Our full-service team provides planning permits, design and construction so that you can complete your renovation without fear. Contact us today for the consultation.