Members request help with commercial renovations because:
- If a project isn't local, we can help source reliable tradesmen in new areas so members know what and who they're getting
- Small niggly jobs consume members' time and energy. We can arrange for tradesmen to sort out the little things in life
- Big commercial projects need ‘all hands to the pump'. While one of our experts may be researching planning issues, for example, another can be sorting out the safety concerns for a swimming pool
Renovations expert Roberto Crovini says: 'When member Spencer Ahluwalia bought the 13th-century Gerbestone Manor in August 2007, he began a vast programme of updating the Grade-II listed property so it could be used as a luxury house for rent. The house was already being used as a going concern, but lots of work was required: complete redecoration, transformation of the bathrooms from ‘B&B-style' into sophisticated spaces and upgrading of the furniture and fittings.
'Spencer talked to us about what he wanted to create – a fabulous place in which people could have house parties, weddings and corporate functions – and we went from there. The house had 12 bedrooms, an outdoor pool and croquet lawn, but he wanted to add tennis courts and a helicopter landing area to the seven-acre estate. Some of the things he wanted were semi-permanent – marquee hire, Michelin-starred chefs on demand, and a fleet of Bentleys to transport guests if required.
'We have been involved in every aspect of this phenomenal feat of organisation, and it: checking out landing rights for the helipad, finding the Michelin-starred chefs, helping with the details and paperwork needed for Gerbestone's civil marriage licence, and sourcing plumbers and tradesmen which allowed the entire refurb to be finished within five weeks.
Commercial renovations are a big part of our work and most of them are connected with members' buy-to-let properties. We get involved in decorating, arranging maintenance and liaising with tenants, but we can also overhaul shops and office spaces. For example, when one member needed to turn three garages into office space, we sourced flooring and office furniture for him.
Insider tips:
- Commercial renovations need to work to a tight timescale. Paying for experts in areas where experience is lacking can save time and money. Talk to our home team for advice on who to go to.
- If a commercial building project needs planning consent, make sure this is allowed for in the timescale and costs. It's possible to start making a planning application before the sale has been completed, but the present owner will need to give their consent.
- When starting to look at buy-to-let properties, pick the brains of local letting agents. They'll be able to discuss the best types of rental properties and the requirements of future tenants: one or two-bed flats, gardens, proximity to rail or road links, and so on. Paying attention to the details in the early stages can help you find the best tenants for the property.
- Before applying for planning permission, appointments can usually be made to discuss the project with a relevant planning officer who will give free advice.
