| How Much Will It Cost To Renovate Your House in the Philippines? |

Renovation is the process of improving a damaged or outdated space or structure. In the Philippines, the term renovation is used interchangeably with “alteration” or “remodeling” (changing the structural elements, partitions, or openings in a space). To keep things simple, we'll use the term renovation. So how much will it cost you to renovate your home in the Philippines? The straightforward answer, it depends. A contractor may verbally give you a rough estimate based on his experience but take note that there is no such thing as a per square meter estimate for renovation projects, there are too many variables to consider. However, these are some factors which will affect the cost of your renovation project:

1.   Scope of Work

You as the owner shall define the scope of work to be done in your home. You might want to renovate merely your kitchen. You may want to replace your overhead cabinets, repaint your walls, and upgrade your lighting fixtures. As the owner, you must define this before you reach out to an architect or contractor.

2.   Quality of Materials

Once you have defined the scope, determine the quality of materials to be used. Of course, we want the best quality, but we can only buy what our money allows. Ask your architect or contractor regarding the price differences of different quality of materials and their pros and cons. Your project cost may double or triple when you use high-end materials, even if the scope of work remains the same.

3.   Demolition Works

In renovation projects, demolition work is commonly involved. This pertains to the removal of an existing item (it can be a wall, any carpentry fixture, ceiling, window). This carries the risk of damaging adjacent structures or severing utility lines which are embedded in those structures. It must be considered that change orders or additional works are to be expected since embedded items cannot be readily diagnosed upon ocular visits.

4.   Contingencies

In renovation projects, there must be a higher allowance for contingencies. Unforeseen circumstances such as termite infestation, insufficient structural support, fire hazards, structural damage, and other obstacles that will hinder the execution of the original scope of work must be anticipated. You must hope for the best, but also prepare for the worst. We at Archadius Construction always let our clients know that in renovation projects, it is always a good idea to have at least half of the initial budget set aside for unexpected costs.

Consult with an architect first to get your space evaluated. In the same way that you wouldn't buy medicine without first consulting a doctor, you shouldn't hire a builder immediately without first getting a comprehensive examination from a professional. You certainly do not want your contractor to bill you suddenly in the middle of the project due to a lack of careful evaluation. Your job as the owner is to define the scope of works and your budget while it is the architect’s job to analyze the existing building, incorporate your vision to create a feasible new space while taking into account constraints such as the budget; and it is the contractor’s job to execute the architect’s plans. Truthfully, there is no correct answer to the question.

Archadius Construction Corporation specializes in residential construction and remodeling as well as condominium and commercial fit-outs. For your construction needs, you may reach us through Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archadiusconstruction. You may also email us at contact@archadiusconstruction.com or call/text us at 0916-321-6094 / 0969-277-4634.