9 Tips for Planning Dual Occupancy Homes Renovation

Renovating dual occupancy homes can be an overwhelming step, especially since you need to manage the renovation of two houses. However, if planned properly, it can also be an exciting project. At the same time, dual occupancy renovation can improve the functionality of the property, boost value, and create better living spaces. Whether you’re currently living in one unit, both of them, or you rent them both, renovations can be a great way to maintain or improve the property value.

So, if it’s your first time renovating dual occupancy homes, here are some tips you should try.

1. Clearly Define Your Goals and Budget 

Defining your goals is the first thing you should do when planning to renovate your dual occupancy homes. Once you have clear objectives, it’s easier to decide your budget and pick the designs you want. It can be about accommodating other family members or boosting rental income. But take some time in finalising your goals.

Meanwhile, once you’re done identifying your goals, the next step is to create a detailed budget. However, ensure that it’s flexible, and also include permits, fees, labour, materials, and contingency funds.

2. Check Local Zoning and Building Regulations

Even if you’ve handled the construction of the dual occupancy homes during the initial building, the local zoning and building regulations may have already changed. So, where you have prior knowledge about these facts, don’t forget to check them again because there may even be slight changes.

When checking the local zoning and building regulations, you may consult with the building surveyor or local council because they are aware of the rules.

3. Work with Professionals Experienced in Dual Occupancy Projects

When it comes to renovating dual occupancy homes, it’s essential to work with professionals. Besides, you may be dealing with shared walls or space, so the team should have enough knowledge and expertise about the renovation.

On the other hand, if you hire a random builder, they might not be able to handle the renovation well, considering the difference in the elements of a single-family home and dual occupancy homes.

4. Prioritise Privacy 

When living in dual occupancy homes, one of the key considerations is privacy. Since this type of living situation comes with shared spaces, one of the main goals is to ensure that both occupants are comfortable in their homes.

Meanwhile, to increase the privacy in each dual occupancy home, you can add some acoustic insulation in the shared floors or walls, add landscaping or fencing, and provide separate home entrances, even if the main gate is shared.

5. Plan for Energy Efficiency and Shared Utilities

Since you’re renovating, this can also be the right time to boost the energy efficiency of the house and lessen the long-term costs. Some of these may include installing huge windows and solar panels, and adding quality insulation.

Whether you’re renting both dwellings or not, each occupant should be able to have control over their bills, so it’s also necessary to have separate utility meters. Besides, if you’re renting out the place, this can be a great way to attract tenants.

6. Focus on Flexible and Functional Layouts

Another thing you should focus on when renovating dual occupancy homes is the layout. Since you’re renovating, there are many things you should consider, such as open-plan living, more storage, and multi-purpose rooms.

In addition, consider versatile layouts so that the occupants can rearrange the interior without the need to renovate in the future. And compared to pre-designed projects, this can give you the liberty to customise the place as you wish.

7. Don’t Forget Outdoor and Shared Spaces

When it comes to the shared spaces and outdoors, it’s best to balance the functionality and style. In doing so, you should consider adding partitions, landscaping, and defining which zone should be used by each dwelling.

At the same time, don’t neglect the design of the layout. If adding partitions may not look suitable for the space, you can look for other options to make it look like one side is recommended to be used by one dwelling.

8. Schedule Work Efficiently to Minimise Disruption

Dual occupancy home renovations can be a lot to take in, but careful planning may result in more efficient work. You can start with the structural modifications, then move on with plumbing and electrical, and the interior finishes can be the last.

Meanwhile, when there are current occupants when doing the renovation, you can provide an alternative living situation, or always keep the communication open.

9. Think About Long-Term Maintenance and Value

The long-term maintenance and property value are some of the things you should consider when it comes to dual occupancy home renovations. Whether the place will be rented out or not, it can still significantly affect you in the long run. So, ensure that all the features that you’ll be changing are easy to maintain and can add value to the property.

Final Thoughts

Dual occupancy home renovations can be an overwhelming yet rewarding process. By considering the tips listed in this article, you can easily manage the renovation of your property.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aliana Baraquio writes for Worthington Homes, the new Home Builder in Sydney, NSW, who makes major life milestones happen and stays with you through thick and thin. You can also find her trying out new recipes for barbecue and other grilled meals in her free time.