As a homeowner, renovating your property is an important step towards preserving the value of your assets, attracting tenants or simply improving your comfort. However, undertaking renovation work is not something you can improvise. You need to understand your legal obligations, be equipped with the right tools, and be aware of the most effective solutions for carrying out your projects.
In this guide, we'll take a look at your obligations as a homeowner, the tools you'll need for any renovation project, and a few tips to simplify the task.
Your legal obligations as an owner
1. Compliance with health and safety standards
Landlords have a legal obligation to provide their tenants with decent and safe accommodation. This means that the electrical installations, plumbing, insulation and materials used in the building must comply with current standards.
Before starting any work, it's vital to find out about the building regulations that apply in your region. In Belgium, for example, certain renovation works are subject to planning permission, and it is sometimes necessary to comply with specific rules if your property is located in a listed or protected area.
2. Energy efficiency obligations
New European and local regulations are imposing more and more constraints in terms of the energy performance of buildings. Whether you are planning to renovate a roof, insulate walls or replace a heating system, you will probably have to comply with minimum energy efficiency thresholds.
What's more, some energy renovations qualify you for grants or tax reductions. In Belgium, for example, the Walloon Region and the Brussels Region offer grants to help improve the energy performance of homes.
The essential tools for your renovation work
1. Tools for heavy-duty work
Homeowners who want to renovate their property themselves or supervise the work need to be equipped with the right tools. Here is a list of the essential tools for any renovation project:
- Hammer drill Indispensable for drilling into hard materials such as concrete.
- Circular saw Useful for precise cutting of wood, metal or plastic.
- Scaffolding For work at height, such as renovating a facade or roof.
- Laser levelling To ensure your surfaces are flat, particularly when laying tiles or partitions.
- Electric sander Perfect for renovating woodwork or smoothing surfaces before painting.
These tools can be expensive to buy, but it is possible to hire them via platforms such as QijcoWe offer a wide range of equipment for hire to make your renovation projects easier and more cost-effective.
b. Tools for minor repairs and finishing
For finishing touches or small jobs, here's a list of equally essential tools:
- Cordless screwdriver Ideal for assembling furniture or fixing various components.
- Coating knife For smoothing walls after filling in cracks.
- Quality rollers and brushes To ensure an impeccable finish when painting.
Solutions to simplify your renovations
1. Outsource some work
Even if you're an experienced DIYer, some work, such as plumbing or electrical work, should be carried out by certified professionals. Outsourcing these tasks will not only save you time, but also ensure compliance with safety standards.
In addition to tool hire, Qijco has thought of everything by completing its offer with qijcorepair.comHere you can find qualified tradespeople for your renovation work, or post your request directly to make it easier for you to complete your project.
2. Effective planning and budgeting
Planning is the key to the success of any renovation project. Before starting any work, draw up a realistic budget, taking into account materials, labour and unforeseen circumstances. Online tools such as cost calculators can help you estimate the budget required.
And don't forget to get several quotes so you can compare prices and choose the most advantageous solution. A well-planned project is one that runs smoothly.
3. Take advantage of renovation grants and subsidies
As mentioned earlier, in Belgium there are a number of grants available to encourage homeowners to improve the energy performance of their buildings. Incentives can cover part of the cost of insulation, replacing heating systems or installing solar panels. Check with your local authority to make sure you don't miss out.
Conclusion
Property renovation is an important step for homeowners. By complying with your legal obligations, equipping yourself with the right tools and outsourcing complex work, you can undertake your renovations with complete peace of mind. Don't forget to consult the resources and services offered by QijcoWe can help you with your projects by facilitating access to equipment and qualified craftsmen. With the right planning, your project will be a success, and your property will increase in value over the long term.
References :
(1) Bonuses | Belgium.be
(2) Energy renovation grants and loans | Wallonia
(3) Renovation grants, taxation and financing | Brussels-Capital Region
(4) Qijco Repair - Find available repairers near you
(5) Qijco - Buy, sell & rent your tools
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