FAQ

WHAT WE DO

Do you only renovate condos?

Yes. This is our specialty as the logistics of condo renovations require special procedures. We have these systems efficiently mastered.

Do you only take on renovations in Vancouver?

The majority of our condo renovations are carried out in Vancouver, however we are available to take projects anywhere in the Lower Mainland, provided that the scope of work is a complete transformation.

What size of a renovation do you typically take on?

Our preferred renovation size is a complete transformation project:  gutting of all existing materials to start from a fresh canvas.

ABOUT US

What licenses do you hold that a professional renovator should have in place?

We are a fully licensed business in all Lower Mainland municipalities, with a $5 million blanket insurance policy, including a clean track record with WorkSafe BC.  In addition, we are active members of the Homebuilders Association of Vancouver (HAVAN).

How do you charge for your renovation work?

Our pricing is designed to be transparent to the client throughout the renovation process. As a contractor, we receive discounted pricing from suppliers & sub-trades, passing these savings onto the client. We charge a flat management fee on all costs incurred, including an hourly fee for site-supervision.

I like what I’m reading, how do I get started?

Great!  We can begin the process by getting in touch and discussing your renovation.  You may reach us via phone at 778-233-1395 or email: info@condoworks.com

PROCESS

This is my first time going through a major renovation process, what does it entail?

Although it may seem daunting, renovations don’t have to be difficult or “scary”.  Our team can guide you through the design process and present you with time-lines to complete the renovation. 

We will also manage all communication with stratas and property management companies to obtain permission or permits as required.

I’m confused about the permit process. I heard that I don’t need a permit to do renovations, is this true?

Requiring permits for a project is mainly dependent on 2 factors:

  1. Whether the work will entail removing of any walls (structural or non), or changing of room sizes, functionality etc,
  2. Whether the property management firm or strata will require you to obtain a permit for the work.

Generally, cosmetic work that does not alter the existing layout of plumbing, electrical, sprinklers, or walls does not require permits.  However, the majority of our projects go through the permitting process as they are transformational projects.

How long will a renovation take?

The magnitude of your renovation and size of unit, including accessibility to site (number of elevators, parking for trades, site logistics), and material availability will all dictate how long your renovation will take.  Of course during COVID, renovations are taking longer due to capacity of workers allowed in a unit, and the availability of materials.

We are cognisant of completing projects within the earliest timeline possible and certainly make it a goal to be in/out as quick as possible

We don’t get possession of our new condo until several weeks/months from now. Is there a way we can begin the renovation process?

We recommend “getting all the ducks in a row” to hit the ground running upon possession. 

This includes including permission from sellers to carry out a site-measurement and obtaining their permission to submit for permits etc.  Some sellers are open to commencing the renovation permitting process, assisting in expediting renovations.

Can I live in my condo while the renovation work is going on?

Preferably not.  The reason is that we’ll likely be undertaking a complete renovation of your condo, rendering it unhabitable.  Furthermore, our work progresses much more efficiently when the space is un-occupied as we don’t have to create barriers between living and renovation space.  It is our experience that the work moves much slower when homeowners choose to remain in place during renovations.

I’m somewhat of a skilled handy-person myself, can I help with part of the renovation?

We appreciate the assistance, however, due to insurance and liability issues, we must politely decline the offer.  

DESIGN

I don’t have a designer in mind, but I’d like help with my design process. Can you help?

Yes!  We are aligned with several interior designers that we love to work with.  We can certainly recommend a few interior designers.

I already know what design look I want in my condo, can you renovate my place?

Yes!  We can team you up with one of our designer partners to fine-tune your design idea, then begin the renovation process (upon going through the channels of strata, property manager, city).

Interested in our services?

Interested in our services? Book a call with us today!
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