Are you planning a Chicago kitchen or bathroom remodeling project? While the typical remodeling budget includes things like cabinets, countertops, flooring and other fixtures – it often neglects to create an “emergency” or “contingency” fund for the potential unknown or hidden costs associated remodeling.
The 7 Most Common Hidden Costs of Chicago Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling
Over the years, we’ve seen these same hidden costs jump-up and surprise clients...even after we've told them to expect a 10% to 15% budget expenditure for emergency contingencies. Sometimes it doesn’t always sink in.
Here are the 7 hidden or unexpected costs that come into play most often.
Unknown structural issues
Most of the time this comes in one of two forms – either you want to remove a wall or section of wall that is load-bearing – requiring some re-engineering and structural supports. The other scenario is when we open a section of wall and find something disastrous has happened unbeknownst to you – such as serious moisture damage, mold/rot, pest damage, etc. Things have to be amended before we can move on.
Home isn’t built to code
Chicagoland’s older homes are notorious for this – and by law, we have to bring electrical and plumbing work up to code before we can continue with a remodel. However, even newer homes can have code issues – DIY additions or remodeling are typically the culprits, as is a previous owner’s use of an unlicensed contractor.
You’ve changed your mind
Yikes! Change orders are expensive. They delay work, they can lead to backorders and they may even require ripping something out to rebuild it differently – all of which tack major $$ onto your total remodeling costs. Working with an experienced Chicago design/build team is your best bet to ensure you’re covering all the basis in your upcoming design so you’re 100% sure of your decisions when we begin the build-out.
Eating out
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, make sure you know how to create a “second kitchen” elsewhere in the home and that you’ve budgeted for food you eat out or - take-out food you bring in. These expenses can come as a surprise, especially if you’re remodel takes longer than planned.
Boarding pets
Originally, you think, “there’s no need to board Fido/Scooter/Tweetie because they can handle anything…” and then your pet goes absolutely bonkers at the first sounds of the band saw. You’d be amazed how many homeowners have to board pets they thought would be fine tucked in another room for the duration. The best bet is to budget for pet boarding, and then be pleasantly surprised if it’s not needed.
Family boarding
We don’t like families to go too far – or for too long – during their bathroom or kitchen remodeling process because we might need your input on something. However, in almost all kitchen remodels – there may come a time where you just need to get away for a few days. Do plan a little extra in the budget in case the construction noise, mess, intrusion becomes overwhelming and you and/or the kids need some time away for peace and quiet.
Want to create a budget – and a Chicago kitchen or bathroom remodel – without a any upsets or surprises? Work with the team at Kitchens & Baths Unlimited and we’ll do our very best to give you a detailed, pre-planned and smooth remodeling process.
