What does a construction company cost and what should you look out for?

Renovation costs vary greatly depending on scope, complexity and materials used. Below is an indicative overview of average costs for various types of renovations.

1. Small renovation

• Examples: painting, minor adjustments, bathroom or kitchen renovation
• Indicative costs: €5,000 – €25,000

2. Medium-sized renovation

• Examples: extension, attic or basement renovation, complete bathroom renovation
• Indicative costs: €25,000 – €75,000

3. Large renovation / new construction

• Examples: full house extension, roof construction, extension with multiple rooms
• Indicative costs: €75,000 – €250,000+

4. Price structure per m² (indicative)

5. Factors that influence the costs

• Scope and complexity of the project
• Choice of materials and level of finish
• Labor costs and regional differences
• Accessibility of the construction site
• Permits and legal requirements
• Unforeseen work or extra wishes

6. Extra cost items

• Architect and consulting costs: 5% – 15% of the construction sum
• Construction supervision and coordination: 3% – 8%
• Adjustments or additional work during execution
• Reservation for unforeseen costs: 10% – 15%

Conclusion
Renovation costs are highly dependent on the type and scope of the project. A detailed budget and good preparation are crucial for managing the budget.

The total cost of a renovation depends on the size, complexity, and chosen finish. Below is an indicative overview of costs per type of project, including all materials, labor costs and VAT.

1. Small renovation

• Examples: painting, small adjustments, bathroom or kitchen renovation
• Indicative costs: €5,000 – €25,000

2. Medium-sized renovation

• Examples: extension, attic or basement conversion, complete bathroom renovation
• Indicative costs: €25,000 – €75,000

3. Major renovation / new construction

• Examples: complete house extension, roof construction, extension with multiple rooms
• Indicative costs: €75,000 – €250,000+

4. Specific project examples

5. Factors influencing the costs

• Level of finishing and materials used
• Complexity of the construction work
• Labor costs and regional price differences
• Accessibility and logistics of the construction site
• Permit and design costs
• Possible unforeseen circumstances or wishes

Conclusion
The costs per renovation project vary greatly, depending on specific wishes and circumstances. A detailed quote is necessary for an accurate price estimate.

The price of a renovation is influenced by various factors. A clear understanding of these helps in creating realistic budgets and avoiding surprises.

1. Scope of the renovation

• Larger areas and more rooms lead to higher costs.
• Complex extensions require more labor hours and materials.

2. Material selection and finishing

• Luxury materials and custom work significantly increase costs.
• Standard materials are cheaper, but may offer less appeal.

3. Complexity of the design

• Custom work and special building shapes cost more time and labor.
• Simple straight lines and standard dimensions are more cost-effective.

4. Labor costs and region

• Hourly rates vary by region; urban areas are often more expensive.
• Specialist tradesmen charge higher rates than general construction workers.

5. Accessibility and reachability

• Difficult access or limited space on the construction site can extend the construction time.
• Additional transport and lifting costs increase the total price.

6. Permits and regulations

• Permit procedures, fees and building supervision involve additional costs.
• Non-compliance can lead to fines and repair costs.

7. Market conditions

• Prices of building materials and labor can fluctuate due to market developments.
• Seasonal influences sometimes lead to higher rates in peak periods.

8. Unforeseen circumstances

• Hidden defects or necessary adjustments during execution lead to additional work.
• A financial buffer is recommended to absorb this.

Conclusion
It is important to take into account the above factors when drafting a renovation budget. Good preparation and clear agreements are essential for cost control.

Clear price agreements with the construction company are essential to avoid surprises and keep the renovation within budget. The following guidelines will help you draw up a transparent agreement.

1. Fixed price or post-calculation

• Fixed price: the contractor provides a fixed price for the complete project or agreed partial work.
• Post-calculation: payment based on actual hours worked and material usage, with an agreed hourly rate and material costs.

2. Specification of costs

• Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs including wages, material costs, transport and other items.
• Check which work and materials are included or excluded.

3. Additional and Reduced Work

• Record how additional and reduced work is handled, including price agreements and approval procedures.
• Agree on a maximum amount or percentage for additional work if desired.

4. Payment Terms

• Make agreements about down payment, installment payments and final settlement.
• Avoid full advance payment; link payments to progress and delivery.

5. Guarantees and liability

• Ask about warranty on work and materials used.
• Establish liabilities for any damage during construction.

6. Changes during the project

• Ensure a procedure where changes are recorded and accepted in writing.
• Communicate any price adjustments in a timely manner.

7. Penalty clauses and planning

• Agree on penalties for late delivery or non-compliance with agreements, if necessary.
• Make clear agreements about the start and end date of the work.

8. Other agreements

• Include agreements on communication, quality requirements and delivery.
• Record agreements in a written agreement or contract.

Conclusion
Clear and detailed price agreements with the construction company form the basis for a successful renovation without financial surprises. Transparency and written recording are crucial here.

Construction drawings are a crucial part of the renovation preparation. In addition to standard drawings, extra options can ensure greater accuracy, efficiency and permit processes.

1. Standard construction drawings

• Floor plans, elevations and sections
• Basic design and structural details
• Use for quotation requests and permits

2. Extended technical drawings

• Detailed drawings for construction, installations and finishing
• Specifications for professionals and suppliers
• Support for accurate execution

3. 3D designs and visualizations

• Realistic representations of the end result
• Virtual tours and material simulations
• Helps with communication with client and municipality

4. As-built drawings

• Detailed drawings after completion of the project
• Useful for future maintenance, renovations or sale

5. Cost indication for extra drawing work

6. Advantages of extra drawings

• Fewer construction errors and changes during execution
• Faster and smoother permit applications
• Better communication and decision-making with all parties involved

Conclusion
Investing in detailed construction drawings and visualizations increases the quality and predictability of the renovation process. It prevents unnecessary costs and delays.

Creating building plans and going through the permit process are necessary steps in many renovation projects. With smart choices, costs can be saved here without loss of quality.

1. Use standard drawings where possible

• Use standard building plans or existing templates for simple renovations.
• This limits drawing costs and speeds up the process.

2. Combine drawing work with other services

• Request multiple services from the same architect or draftsman (e.g. design, technical elaboration and permit).
• This can lead to package discounts.

3. Request multiple quotes

• Compare rates from different drawing offices and architects.
• Pay attention to what is included, such as revisions and consultation moments.

4. Be clear and complete in the job description

• Ensure that all wishes and requirements are clear so that extra revisions and additions are limited.
• This prevents additional costs and delays.

5. Inquire in advance about permit requirements

• Check via the environmental desk whether a permit is necessary.
• Small renovations are sometimes permit-free, which saves costs.

6. Use digital tools

• Digital drawing programs and online permit procedures can save time and costs.
• Discuss with the draftsman whether this is possible.

7. Limit the number of revisions

• Plan consultation moments well to bundle revisions.
• Ensure that all parties involved provide timely feedback.

8. Do preparatory work yourself

• Gather information yourself, such as cadastral data, photos, and old drawings.
• This limits the number of hours a professional needs.

Conclusion
By planning well in advance, communicating clearly, and working efficiently, costs for building plans and permits can be limited without compromising quality.