Have you seen the TV shows DIY SOS or 60 Minute Makeover? In just days or even minutes, a property is partially or completely transformed. However, real life is different, and few people have the resources of a TV company. Also, what happens after the cameras leave? Was everything as good as it seemed?
Tony Cheeseman, Founder and Director of IQ Property Services, is used to acting for clients through the whole process of designing and building homes, and knows what a renovation or new build project should be like in real life. He commented on this topic in a recent issue of Chislehurst Life magazine and its sister titles.
Tony said, “We have been helping people to enjoy realising their dreams for over 25 years. We start by identifying your wishes. How do you want to live in the house? How many of you will live there? What are your entertainment needs and desired spaces? Vision in place, the design can begin, incorporating your preferred architectural style and needs like efficient heating systems or garden irrigation.
“Next, we identify the professionals required for the design, such as architects, structural engineers, and interior designers. Interviewing these professionals is crucial to ensure we work well together for you.
“With the design team in place, work can start on drawings and specifications. We prefer a 3D model for better visualization. The design and specification stage typically takes at least three months before the tender process begins.
“We will interview several contractors. A Quantity Surveyor (QS) helps to prepare detailed tender documents, ensuring all contractors price the same scope of work.
“We work with you to select the best contractors. Once the contractors are appointed, we sort out all the necessary paperwork and insurance.
“During construction, we monitor progress closely, ensuring contractors are only paid for completed work. A retention clause holds back a percentage of payments against defective work. Proper project monitoring helps manage changes and keeps the project on track.
“At project completion, snagging and commissioning ensure all work is satisfactory. Practical completion releases half of the retention money, with the remaining half held for 12 months to cover any defects. After 12 months, a final inspection is conducted before releasing the remaining retention money.”
Tony and IQ Property Services can take your wishes and turn them into reality, smoothly and efficiently.
Would you like to know more? Give Tony a call for a free, no-obligation chat on 01959 533788.
Otherwise, please get in touch via the form on our Contact page.