The importance of site visit | RCD TIPS

Hello RCD readers

Almost everything I do has been via WhatsApp and mailing. But one thing that has to stay is site visit

What can you expect during a site visit in my profession?

I can only talk about the way I work. So here goes. With this firm I offer site visit with the client for redesigning, renovation and extending of houses and businesses.  

I come at the first visit for orientation. And we make an appointment for the measurement stage. First visit is just you visualizing your wants and needs first to me with the room or rooms in sight. I measure each room.

What needs to be measured?

- length, depth and height of each room

- thickness of the walls

- length , depth and height of each window plus door in comparison of the walls.

- build in furniture that stays

- unique specs when architectural features are used

- roof measurements

- measurements of the building tov it's surroundings

What needs to be noted?

- lot's of pictures

- water installation

- drainage outdoors

- electrical plan ( lighting , Wi-Fi , tv etc)

When is a site visit necessary?

Always. A site visit is important not only for renovation but for each project also new design.

But why?

1)  New Design;

- I have to check the current drainage of the plot itself. 

- I have to check if the plot has any disadvantaged that will hinder design options. For example:

Low plot side and high road. Which means you can problems with water. So you need to raise the plot site or raise the flooring from the insight of the house higher than the main road itself.

- I have to check your surroundings because this can influence the design.

2) renovation

- beside the measurements. I have to check what needs renovation itself. Because each renovation project gets a renovation report. 

You'll get the measurements of everything. You'll get the documentation three things; 

 A) what needs fixing

 B) what needs just a face lift 

 C) what needs replacing entirely

3) Redesign or remodeling

A lot of people are confused with this one and think just giving the space dimensions is enough. I need to see the entire space plan first how it is. And here out your suggestions.  The advice for possible solutions will be given. This site visit ends with different layout sketch concepts that are possible. I always advice people to still ask for the site visit during this. Because with possible layout solutions you can do a lot already. Especially articulate your dream design with a sketch.

4) extending 

Also a big discussion. Same with the last one. Only difference here is that we are talking about your plot site itself. Underground piping or where the septic tank has been placed or the current roofing or the height of your ceiling and most important where you park your car. All these points can make an huge influence in where you build and what is possible to extend. So a site visit is necessary. 

When is a measuring during site visit not important?

If the layout has not changed from your old drawings and you still have the drawings. That is the only time I would advice you not to ask for measuring stage of the site visit and just show the drawings before hand. 

What do you get after a site visit?

I give site visit rapport. This includes;

- layout of current stage 

- layouts of possible designs

- pictures of the current stage

- if needed inspiration pics for possible design ideas

Why should you choose to ask for that?

I always say if the possibility of building is not here yet. Ask for a site visit. You'll get a possible layout design and with that you can already get an idea of the cost from a contractor. When you're ready the design can detailed for you so that you can a get a building permit. 

Hope you are well informed with the importance of a site visit.