How to Prepare Your Home for a Major Renovation

Planning Your Major Home Renovation in Philadelphia

A major home renovation is an exciting journey, but proper preparation is key to ensuring everything goes smoothly. As Philadelphia's trusted general contractor, KFB Construction has guided hundreds of families through successful renovations across the city's diverse neighborhoods.

Whether you're planning a complete home makeover in Chestnut Hill, a kitchen and bathroom renovation in Center City, or a home addition in Northern Liberties, this comprehensive guide will help you prepare for success.

1. Set a Realistic Budget and Timeline

Before any work begins, establish a comprehensive budget that includes a 15-20% contingency for unexpected issues. In Philadelphia's older homes, we often discover hidden problems like outdated electrical systems, plumbing issues, or structural concerns that need addressing.

Budget Breakdown for Major Renovations:

• Labor: 35-40% of total budget
• Materials: 40-45% of total budget
• Permits and fees: 2-5% of total budget
• Contingency: 15-20% of total budget
• Design and planning: 5-10% of total budget

2. Create a Temporary Living Plan

Major renovations can disrupt your daily routine significantly. Plan ahead for how you'll handle cooking, bathing, and sleeping during construction. Consider setting up a temporary kitchen in your basement or garage, and identify which bathrooms will remain functional.

Temporary Living Essentials:

• Portable cooking appliances (microwave, hot plate, mini-fridge)
• Paper plates and disposable utensils
• Temporary sleeping arrangements if bedrooms are affected
• Alternative bathroom facilities
• Storage solutions for displaced belongings
• Air purifiers to manage dust

3. Secure Permits and Approvals

Philadelphia has specific building codes and permit requirements. At KFB Construction, we handle all permit applications for our clients, but it's important to understand what's required for your project.

4. Protect Your Belongings

Construction creates dust, noise, and potential damage risks. Remove valuable items, artwork, and fragile belongings from work areas. Cover remaining furniture with plastic sheeting and seal off adjacent rooms when possible.

5. Communicate with Neighbors

Philadelphia's close-knit neighborhoods mean your renovation will affect your neighbors. Inform them about the project timeline, expected noise levels, and any potential disruptions like blocked parking or delivery trucks.

Ready to start your renovation? Contact KFB Construction at (267) 626-6712 or email sales@kfbconstructioninc.com for your free consultation and detailed preparation guide.