Ah the *dreaded* trades people... you probably know someone who's had some sort of problem with them. We hate to break it to you, but you probably will have to kiss a few frogs too, before you find your power team. However, being fully informed about what trades are needed in a property renovation and what they do, will set you off in good stead.
Now, you might not need ALL of these for your specific project, but knowing what they do will help you determine this...
PRE-PROJECT START
Surveyor: Prior to purchase it's recommended that you get a surveyor to assess the buildings conditions, identify potential issues, and provide recommendations for maintenance, renovation or construction projects to ensure structural integrity and safety. If anything unexpected comes back, you might want to negotiate a discount on the agreed price or even walk away from the purchase altogether!
Architect: Creates the layout, design, and plans for the renovation, ensuring structural integrity and offering value by suggesting ideas you may never have thought of. If you're going through a planning application you will need an architect to do your proposed drawings so don't forget to factor this into your budget.
Structural Engineer: As you can probably guess, they're concerned with all things structure — i.e. making sure your property stays up! On a straightforward refurb a structural engineer might not be necessary, but if you're removing walls, adding an extension or doing major reconfiguration, a structural engineer will work in conjunction with your architect to make sure any design is achievable, and most importantly, what structural elements you'll need to make it a reality!
Quantity Surveyor: As with the structural engineer, for a minor refurb a QS isn't necessary (their job is to effectively estimate cost of works). However, if you're doing major works and looking to keep a to a tighter budget, they can be instrumental in helping you plan for cash flow, and make sure the project is within you budget in the first place! As much as you can get contractor quotes for works, a QS is an independent person in the mix so can advised if you're being over charged.
Planning consultant: As the name suggests, you'll only need a planning consultant if you're going through planning. They have the tips and tricks to navigate complex planning regulations and processes related to land development, construction or property use to increase the chances of your application being approved.
Interior Designer: No, they aren't just fluffing up cushions and arranging furniture! Not only do interior designers create aesthetically pleasing and functional indoor spaces, they also create floor plans, electrical/plumbing plans plus detailed drawings for trades. But also source high quality items at the best price and ensure sufficient flow in the space. The best time to get a designer in is when you commission your architect. The two working in tandem will produce the best end result.
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As with a lot of trades mentioned in the planning stage, hiring designers and consultants make seem like a sunken cost but should be seen as investment to ensure your project is as successful as possible.
DURING PROJECT
Building Control: Building control needs to be appointed when undertaking major construction work such as erecting a new building, making structural changes or performing certain types of renovations and extensions to a property. This trade is necessary to ensure compliance with building regulations and codes, ensuring the safety, accessibility and structural integrity of the construction project. Try to work with them, as they can make life very difficult if they want to and could even refuse to sign-off on your project if ti doesn't meet standard.
Pssst make sure you get them in at the right stage, it's no good them coming to inspect when your walls are freshly plastered, they need to see everything underneath that plaster!
Project Manager: Particularly useful if you're investing far from home, a Project Manager overseas budgets, schedules, contractors, and stakeholders, ensuring that the project is executed efficiently, within the specified timeline, and meets the client's objectives and quality standards.
Some people brave this job themselves, particularly at the start of their journey when money might be tight and learning is a higher priority, but a PMs job is not to be underestimated! If you're going for one, make sure you like them and you can communicate well, as you'll be speaking to them a lot.
Builder: A builder is responsible for overseeing and executing construction projects, managing various tasks such as laying foundations, erecting structures, and coordinating different trades. They interpret blueprints, ensure adherence to building codes and regulations, and supervise teams to ensure the successful completion of building projects.
Electrician: An electrician specialises in installing, maintaining and repairing electrical systems. They work with wiring, fixtures, circuits, and electrical components to ensure property functionality and safety. An electrician will visit the project on two occasions - first fix to install all the wiring (pre-plastering) and second fix to attach pendants and switches (post-plastering) read our blog all about this here.
Plumber: A plumber specialises in installing, maintaining, and repairing piping systems that carry water, gas, sewage, and drainage in buildings. They work on fixtures, pipes, fittings, and appliances, ensuring proper functioning of plumbing systems - think boilers, bathrooms, radiators as the key areas. AS with electricians, plumbers will visit the property multiple times for first and second fix.
Roofer: A roofer specialises in constructing, repairing, and maintaining roofs. They work with various materials such as shingles, tiles, metals, or membranes, ensuring roofs are waterproof, durable, and structurally sound to protect buildings from weather elements - not particularly exciting, but super crucial!
Plasterer: The powerful stage, where the building site now starts to look like a home - yippie! A plasterer prepares walls and ceilings by erecting plasterboard and applying plaster, ensuring smooth, even surfaces before painting or wallpapering. Ooo nothing beats that smooth chocolatey freshly plastered walls!
Carpenter: A carpenter works with wood to construct, install, and repair structures, furniture, and fixtures. They create everything from simple frameworks to intricate woodworking projects - think stud walls, shelving, skirting and any built-in storage as the key jobs on a renovation project.
Painter: The pretty stage, where your Pinterest board starts to come to life! A painter applies paint, stain, and other finishes to surfaces, ensuring a polished and cohesive appearance. Although paint is not nearly as important as the bones of the building, it leaves a lasting impression. If the finish isn't on point, it makes the buyer or tenant think "if this isn't great, what will the standard of the work be like that we can't see!?'
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Flooring Specialist: Another wow moment in a project is when the flooring is installed. A flooring specialist installs various types of flooring such as hardwood, tile, carpet, or laminate and more! Make sure they've properly prepped the subfloor before any installation as this will determine how long your flooring holds up.
Tiler: A tiler specialises in installing tiles on surfaces such as floors, walls, and ceilings. They meticulously prepare surfaces, apply adhesives, and lay tiles in patterns or designs, ensuring precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal in various settings like kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor areas. The smaller the tile the more expensive the install, so if you're on a tight budget go bigger!
Mastic Man: You're finished, the carpet is down, walls painted, tenants ready to move in, BUT the property still needs to be air and water-tight...enter the Mastic Man. He (or she) will apply sealant all round door and window frames, building facades, or baths and sinks to ensure a perfect finish.
Landscaper: Finally, thinking about the exterior of your project if you have any sort of garden, you'll want to look for a landscaper. They can handle garden design, planting, hardscaping, and outdoor structure installation.
Each trade specialises in a specific aspect of the renovation, working collaboratively to transform a property. Some investors prefer a builder to lead the project and bring their own trades, others like to appoint trades individually, each have their own advantages and disadvantages, it's ultimately up to you to decide!
Are there any trades we've missed? Let us know in our insta DM's or email us!
