Desperate to renovate your existing home or investment property? With some restrictions in place across Victoria, many homeowners are confused about what they can and can’t do. Mint Kitchen Group investigates the current restrictions facing renovation enthusiasts in Melbourne and how you can plan and begin your dream renovation in these challenging times.

Navigate to specific section:

• What About Distance Design & Renovations?
• Will I be able to visit the site before the handover?
• Owner Occupied v Non-Owner Occupied

With many of us stuck at home with endless lockdowns, the desire to change and update is stronger than ever. For some, the big budgets once spent on overseas travel and adventure are now being utilised in impressive home renovations and updating investment properties. But what are the current restrictions and how will they impact your dream project and more importantly your deadlines?

Currently, no tradespeople can visit homes for renovations but can undertake any urgent repairs or outdoor maintenance work. This can leave many renovation dreamers stuck in a state of planning. The good news is that renovation work is still possible if the property is not occupied. So, if you have recently bought a new home and your wanting to renovate, now is the perfect time to get busy. Delaying your planned move date, will allow you to renovate without the hassle the current restrictions are causing to many renovation enthusiasts.

Plus; with so many short-stay rental properties available on Airbnb, homeowners can also choose to move out of their dwellings, allowing the renovation to take place. This is not only a great way to ensure your renovation can be completed in a timely fashion, but it will also allow you to escape the construction site and enjoy the process of a complete beginning-to-end experience, without all the dust, noise, and disturbance a renovation can bring.

The Victorian government has agreed the home building industry is an essential service and it is not subject to the current restrictions on non-essential public gatherings. Meaning…Mint Kitchen Group is open for business! We can undertake renovations during the lockdown in compliance with COVID rules and regulations.

So how will we minimise risk, produce an incredible finished project, and keep everyone safe from COVID-19?

• Ensure the Government’s social distancing criteria are met at all times
• Ensure the Government’s self-isolation rules are met at all times
• Isolate all work areas from non-work spaces
• Manage project schedules to minimise overlaps and numbers of people on site
• Ensure workers have access to PPE gear
• Ensure adequate hygiene and safety facilities are provided
• Facilitate contactless deliveries and payments and traveling out of peak times
• Facilitate site inductions and update on the latest government requirements

Mint Kitchen Group will also keep you in the know! As our top priority – our customers will be given a detailed outline of all COVID-19 site safety measures and keep you updated constantly. During these challenging times communication is key, and keeping you informed about scheduling, staging of work, and site safety using electronic means we are able to update you without compromising safety.

What About Distance Design & Renovations?

It’s all about taking advantage of the latest technology! At Mint Kitchen Group we can conduct the whole design process in a 100% COVID-safe manner. Fancy an online shopping expedition with a trained professional? We can customise your renovation and guide you through the whole project easily and professionally. Utilising the best technology available you will experience top-level renovation design, to help create the project of your dreams.

From the very beginning of designing your dream renovation to keeping you updated with the progress and a virtual viewing, Mint Kitchen Group is equipped to ensure you are virtually present for the entire process, in the comfort of your home or short-stay accommodation.

Will I be able to visit the site before the handover?

Yes, however, the final inspection will be done alone in conjunction with the Government-imposed COVID rules and regulations. These inspections, however, can also be conducted remotely, through the use of digital devices and video. At Mint Kitchen Group we can do a full walk-through inspection of your new renovation if you are unable to travel to the site due to travel restrictions.

Owner Occupied v Non-Owner Occupied

With no tradespeople currently being allowed to undertake any interior renovations, owner-occupied construction is a no-go. However, that does not mean you have to put your renovation on hold. If you do choose to stay away from the residence during your renovation, work can easily commence. Not only will you escape the noise and disruption – and super early morning starts – you will also keep stress to a minimum because you’re not living in a partially-renovated home.

Adjusting to this new way of life can seem a little tricky and confusing. However, with high-end technological advancements, our clients can enjoy the whole renovation experience from the comfort of an armchair.

• Creating digital masterpieces of exactly how the renovation will look
• Customising any special features of the design
• Helping choose high-end products, fixtures, and fittings
• Communicating constantly through the process
• Site updates and scheduling progress
• Images and video during the renovation process

So if you’ve been dreaming of your renovation, COVID-19 doesn’t need to be a game-changer. You can take full advantage of the situation and still create the renovation project you’ve been fantasising.

For more information contact our Mint Kitchen Group expert team of designers today!