Good preparation is the key to a successful renovation. Without organisation, a renovation project can quickly become a nightmare: delays, budget overruns, daily stress. Here are the essential steps to organise your work like a professional.
Before work begins: The preparation phase
1. Define the project clearly
First, establish the foundations of your project:
What you need to determine:
- Comprehensive list of work to be done
- Priorities (urgent vs can wait)
- Realistic budget with 10-15% contingency for unexpected costs
- Desired timeline
Tip: Write everything down! A well-documented project avoids misunderstandings with contractors.
2. Obtain necessary permits
Depending on the scope of work in Luxembourg, you may need:
| Type of work | Permit required |
|---|---|
| Painting, flooring, kitchen | None |
| Windows (same dimensions) | None |
| Façade modification | Prior declaration |
| Extension | Building permit |
| Structural work | Building permit |
Important: In apartments, inform the property manager and obtain assembly approval if needed.
3. Plan the schedule
Good planning is essential:
- Estimated duration of work (ask contractors)
- Sequence of work: demolition → structural → finishing → final touches
- Temporary accommodation for major work
- Coordination between different trades
Typical sequence example:
- Demolition / removal (1-2 weeks)
- Electrical / plumbing (1-2 weeks)
- Plastering / insulation (1-2 weeks)
- Tiling / flooring (1 week)
- Painting (1 week)
- Kitchen / furniture installation (1 week)
4. Select your contractors
On tack.lu, you can:
- Compare multiple professionals
- Check verified customer reviews
- Get free quotes
- Verify qualifications
Golden rule: Minimum 3 quotes for each trade.
During work: Managing the site
5. Protect unaffected areas
Before work starts:
- Protective sheeting on floors
- Plastic film on remaining furniture
- Masking tape on door frames
- Sealed doors to contain dust
6. Organise storage and disposal
Material storage:
- Dry, ventilated space
- Easy access for deliveries
- Protection against theft
Rubble disposal:
- Skip hire (€100-300/week)
- Or contractor removal service
- Follow sorting regulations
7. Secure the site
Safety measures:
- Turn off electricity if necessary
- Mark dangerous areas
- Store hazardous products separately
- Lock access when absent
8. Communicate with your contractors
Best practices:
- Weekly check-in (even 10 minutes)
- Regular site photos
- Sign-off on key stages
- Written questions by email (paper trail)
Mistakes to absolutely avoid
❌ Not planning budget contingency Unexpected costs always arise. Keep 10-15% in reserve.
❌ Underestimating work duration Multiply estimates by 1.5 to be realistic.
❌ Not checking contractor qualifications Unqualified contractor = uninsured work.
❌ Forgetting to compare quotes Price differences can reach 50%.
❌ Changing your mind during work Every change costs time and money.
❌ Not documenting initial state Photograph everything before work (evidence in case of dispute).
Checklist before starting
Check each point before giving the go-ahead:
Administrative
- Budget approved with contingency
- Permits obtained
- Insurance verified (contractor + you)
- Contracts signed with clear terms
Logistics
- Schedule established and shared
- Storage area defined
- Rubble disposal organised
- Site access arranged
Protection
- Furniture protected or removed
- Floors covered
- Neighbours informed (noise)
- Pets safe
Find your contractors on tack.lu
The best preparation starts with choosing the right professionals. On tack.lu:
- Verified and rated contractors
- Free quotes within 48h
- Easy comparison
- Satisfaction guarantee
Ready to start your project? Request your free quotes and find the best contractors in Luxembourg.
