Details of a renovation project that’s availing of the ROI vacant house grant, with tips on what to do and what some of the watchpoints are.
In this article we cover:
- How to tackle a renovation project
- Steps to take
- ROI vacant house grant watchpoints
Q: My son has bought a bungalow erected in 1974. The two-flue chimney needs to be taken down to ground level.
He proposes to replace the chimney with a single flue with stove. Also it needs to be re slated with new felt. He proposes to obtain quotations from three contractors for this work. Please advise the best approach to doing this. He will be applying for the ROI vacant house grant.
Les says: There is no explanation as to why the chimney needs to be taken down, but assuming that it in fact, does, here are a few points which should help:
For any building project, the best way to get quotations which can be accurately compared with each other, is to have drawings prepared which accurately describe and specify the works to be done.
A schedule of works is also a valuable tool in providing a detailed description of the work to be done and can include images of the proposed fixures and finishes, etc. Some aspects of the proposed work will have a potential impact on the health and safety of the occupants, so it is imperative that the works be properly planned and executed
Preparing drawings for a small project might sound like overkill to some self-builders, but you should be advised that, whether in NI or ROI, a building control application is required for a material change to a heating system in an existing dwelling. The working drawings for the application will then also be used by the contractor to plan and execute the works.
As well as satisfying Building Control that the proposal will comply with the relevant regulations, the drawings should show the extent of any demolition and how it affects the existing structure. Good drawings should also help to avoid those unpleasant ‘extras’, i.e. costs which can creep in if the builder has not been made aware of something at the pricing stage.
Be aware that homeowners now have 13 months to finish the works under the (ROI) vacant homes refurbishment scheme, not the 18 months which applied previously.
Upon completion of the works, a technician from your local authority will visit the property and confirm that the work is completed. Planning permission, in certain situations, may be required for the removal of a chimney and the erection of a new flue, so double check with your local planning office before making the grant application.
