FAQs about Home Renovations and Addition

Change is good, especially for a home. A home renovation or construction of a new addition can increase your property value, create more living space, and make the home more energy efficient.

A home renovation project involves various stages and decisions, usually on a tight timeline. It also might disrupt the lives of the homeowners for weeks and sometimes months at a time, depending on the extent of the renovation or construction project. 

If you’re considering a renovation or an addition for your home, the expert team at Elite Construction and Renovations has compiled a list of home renovation and home construction FAQs to help you get the most out of your project. 

How Do I Get Started with My Renovation or Construction Project? 

Presuming you have decided what area and/or additions to focus on for the renovation or construction, the next step is to contact our design/build experts at Elite Construction and Renovations. They will help you design the space for maximum functionality as well as for aesthetics, all while staying within your budget.

Do I Need an Architect?

As a standard guideline, anytime a renovation or construction project affects the structural integrity of a house, the input of a professional architect is required. Elite Construction and Renovations works with highly qualified architects to design, plan, and build a safe and efficient structure. We also understand the local building codes and zoning by-laws for home renovation and construction projects.

How Long Will the Project Take to Complete? 

The time length of your project will depend on the scope of the renovation or construction. Factors that come into play include the extent of the work needed, the weather, material availability, establishment of required permits, and any necessary change orders that arise. Your project manager at Elite Construction and Renovations will be able to offer an approximate estimate of time needed to complete the project.

Who Will Get the Permits from the City? 

A building permit is required for all formal construction projects and most renovation changes to the house. To obtain a permit, architectural drawings and building plans will need to be submitted to the municipality. Elite Construction and Renovations can help guide you through this. 

Can I Live in My House During the Renovation? 

Yes and no. Again, this decision is based on the extent of the work that needs to be done within the home. For the safety of all occupants, you may need to vacate the premises during the renovation. Depending on the project, a portion of the house may be partitioned off, allowing the occupants to remain living in the home. Talk to your project manager during your design consultation to come up with a feasible plan for you and your family. 

Will My Belongings Be Safe During the Renovation? 

Yes, your possessions and belongings will be safe during the construction or renovation period. Elite Construction and Renovations recommends removing or covering items that can be adversely affected by the microscopic dirt particles that become airborne during a construction or renovation work. This can include, but is not limited to, furnishings, electronics, appliances, and household goods.

Who Are the Subcontractors?

Elite Construction and Renovations works with a highly qualified team of subcontractors in a variety of different fields of work. This allows us to source the best contractors within their specific fields to ensure the utmost professionalism, knowledge, and expertise. All of the subcontractors meet and adhere to industry standards and are licensed. Your project manager is responsible for managing the subcontractors and will oversee your project from initial concept to completion.

How Can I Be Assured about the Quality? 

The quality of work performed by Elite Construction and Renovations’ subcontractors is guaranteed through our business. All members of the team understand and follow the Ontario Building Code and city by-laws to ensure each aspect of the project is done to the highest standards. We also vet each subcontractor we hire to ensure they meet the quality standards of our business.

Do You Have Proper Licenses?

Yes, Elite Construction and Renovations is licensed with the City of Toronto. All subcontractors we hire are licensed and insured in their specific industries. 

What Is the Warranty Period for the Work?

All of our workmanship comes with a two-year guarantee. All manufacturers’ warranties are honoured by Elite Construction and Renovations. 

ARE There Designing Services Available? 

Yes, Elite Construction and Renovations offers professional design services on our building plans. Our team will have an initial consultation to become familiar with your vision before designing and building your project.What Locations Do You Serve? 

For more than 15 years, Elite Construction and Renovations has been servicing the areas of Scarborough, Pickering, and Toronto, specifically in The Beaches, Don Valley, Leslieville, Danforth, East York, and Leaside neighbourhoods. 

Will the Foundation Bear the Second Home Addition? 

Most homes can withstand the weight of a second-floor addition with additional structural support. These projects call for collaboration between the engineers and architects at Elite Construction and Renovations to ensure the proposed project is safe and viable for the original structural integrity of the home.

Are There Height Restrictions? 

There are height restrictions within certain neighbourhoods and cities. Each area has a zoning ordinance in place to address height restrictions of existing and new buildings, including houses. If you want to know if you can have a second-floor addition on your home before Elite Construction and Renovations becomes involved, call your local planning department or city hall for a definite answer. 

Will the Existing Floor Have Any Changes?

Yes, the existing floor of a home will most definitely have some renovation and construction done to accommodate a second-floor addition. These can include changes to the electrical, plumbing, ventilation, and walls for staircase installation. Changes may need to be made by Elite Construction and Renovations with the construction of a home addition, but only to the area connected to another room. 

Request a Quote 

When you are ready to begin designing and planning for your new addition or renovation project, call Elite Construction and Renovations for a no obligation quote. We pride ourselves on completing all projects on time and within budget! See why we promise to supply fixed costs without compromising on quality! Contact us today!