00VILLA GUIDE
Checks after renovation works
Renovations touch many systems at once: electricians move circuits, plumbers reroute pipes, AC is disconnected and reconnected, and finishes go over everything. Problems introduced during the works often show up only after the contractors have left. Checking systematically before final sign-off gives the strongest chance of getting them fixed as part of the job.
01PART
Electrics and AC
Test every socket, switch and light in the renovated areas. Check the board is labelled for new circuits. Run AC in each room and check drains run freely after units were moved.
- Test every outlet and light.
- Check board labelling.
- Run AC and check drains.
02PART
Water and waterproofing
Run every tap and shower, look under sinks for drips, and read the water meter with all outlets closed. In new wet areas, ask how the waterproofing was tested.
- Run all outlets.
- Check the meter for leaks.
- Ask for waterproofing test records.
03PART
Finishes and fixings
Look for cracked grout, hollow tiles, sticking doors and loose fixings. Ask for records of what was changed behind walls.
- Tap tiles for hollowness.
- Open and close every door.
- Collect records of hidden work.
04QUESTIONS
- When should I check?
- Before final payment and sign-off.
- What if something fails later?
- Agree in advance how defects after completion will be handled.
- Why did a room lose power after works?
- A cable may have been damaged by a fixing.
- Should waterproofing be tested?
- Yes, before tiles are laid; ask for evidence.
- Should the AC be cleaned after building work?
- Often. Dust from cutting and sanding gets into filters and coils, so a clean after the works is sensible.