Pros, cons and practical tips
What are tenancy changes?
Residential changes are architectural and functional changes that owners of new apartments can make during the construction phase. These modifications allow the space to be tailored to individual preferences, ensuring future residents feel comfortable from the very first day. These changes allow them to avoid renovations immediately after receiving the keys, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
However, implementing changes to the tenancy is a decision that requires careful consideration, as it requires consultation with the developer, setting deadlines, and estimating additional costs. In this article, we present the most important aspects to consider before making the decision to change the tenancy: their advantages, potential disadvantages, and practical tips to help you plan the modifications.
What are tenancy changes and how do they work in practice?
Residential changes can encompass many aspects related to the spatial layout and technical installations within an apartment. For example, as part of a residential change, partition walls are often moved to better adapt the layout to the needs of future residents. This allows for a more functional layout that allows for optimal use of space. This could be done by opening the kitchen to the living room, creating an additional room, or enlarging a bedroom by declining another room.
Another popular type of tenant modification is electrical modifications. For example, you can order additional lighting, rearrange sockets, or adapt the installation to the planned furniture and appliance layout. For many owners, this is an opportunity to customize lighting and other installation elements to suit their preferences and needs.
Residential changes often involve plumbing and sewer systems. These types of modifications allow, for example, to relocate sinks, washing machines, or washbasins. The ability to adapt plumbing and sewer systems to your needs can lead to a more ergonomic kitchen or bathroom design.
However, the tenant change process requires formalities that must be completed in collaboration with the developer. A design of the planned modifications must be presented, and the developer determines the time and costs required for their implementation. It is crucial that the change notification process is completed in a timely manner, as later stages of construction may involve higher costs and technical difficulties.
When can changes to tenancy be made?
It is best to plan changes to the tenant in the early stages of construction, before the developer starts building partition walls, installing installations, applying screeds and plastering, i.e., work aimed at delivering the apartment in the so-called developer’s condition .
The ideal time to report changes is immediately after signing the contract with the developer, when the interior design can still be adjusted without major difficulties. Early notification of changes allows them to be incorporated into the construction schedule, significantly simplifying implementation. However, it’s important to remember that each developer has their own rules regarding apartment modifications, and not all changes may be feasible. Certain structural elements, such as plumbing and sewer lines or gas lines, may not be moved or modified due to technical regulations and building standards.
In practice, if the decision to change the tenant’s identity is made late in the construction process, each modification may require additional work, which translates into increased costs and a longer project completion time. Therefore, it’s best to make a decision on any tenant changes as early as possible, before the developer begins advanced finishing work. This strategy helps avoid unnecessary delays and additional expenses.
Advantages of changing tenants – why is it worth considering adapting your apartment?
By choosing to relocate, you can fully adapt your apartment’s layout to your needs and the demands of everyday life. These modifications allow for a high level of interior functionality, which is particularly important in small apartments, where optimal space management is a priority. For example, the ability to rearrange walls allows for a more open space, increasing comfort and giving the interior a modern character. Adjusting the electrical and plumbing systems is also crucial for the convenience of living. Adding additional lighting and power outlets, or relocating bathroom and kitchen appliances allows you to create an interior that fully aligns with the planned design style and the needs of the residents.
One of the key advantages of tenant changes is the ability to avoid future renovations. By implementing modifications during the construction phase, there’s no need for additional construction work after the apartment is handed over, which primarily saves time. Another advantage is that all installation work is covered by the developer’s warranty, protecting the owner in the event of any installation issues. Reporting changes when signing the contract with the developer or well in advance also speeds up move-in, as all necessary work has already been completed, allowing you to focus solely on finishing the interior to suit your taste and needs.
Disadvantages of changing tenants – cost
The decision to modify the tenant’s appearance involves additional costs, the amount of which depends on the scope of the modifications, the developer’s policy, and the timing of the notification. The cost of modifying the tenant’s appearance can be significantly lower if the notification is made early in the construction process, when the modifications can be incorporated into the initial construction schedule. Otherwise, especially if the apartment is nearing completion, the costs can be significantly higher, as the contractor will have to remove existing elements, such as partition walls, installations, and flooring.
Some developers offer tenant modification packages that encompass several modifications in one, which can be a cost-effective solution. However, even then, it’s worth considering each modification for its usefulness and long-term benefits. While tenant modifications during the construction phase can be expensive, they can prove more cost-effective than future renovations, which can involve even higher costs.
Do tenant changes make sense? When is it worth considering and when is it better to forgo them?
Relocating a property makes sense especially when the apartment requires adaptation to the individual needs of its future residents. Such modifications are useful for larger families who need additional space, for example, for work, study, or children’s play. Owners can then plan an additional room or spacious living room that will meet the needs of all household members. In many cases, relocating a property is also worth considering when owners have specific preferences regarding the layout of the rooms, for example, preferring an open space instead of multiple enclosed rooms, which impacts the comfort of the apartment.
On the other hand, there are situations where making changes to the tenant’s home may be less cost-effective. If the additional cost of the modifications significantly exceeds the budget, and the planned changes can be made independently after the apartment is handed over, it is sometimes better to forgo formal changes to the tenant’s home. It’s important to remember that minor finishing touches, such as adding lighting, can be completed by a finishing team after the apartment is handed over without additional paperwork and are usually more cost-effective. In situations where the costs of the change are disproportionately high compared to the benefits, considering making the changes yourself may be more economical and practical.
Summary
Modifications to the tenant’s tenancy can bring many benefits to future residents. They allow them to tailor the layout and installations of their apartments to their individual needs, improving comfort and functionality. This allows them to avoid future renovations and customize the space to their individual needs before they even receive the keys. Key benefits of modifications include improved interior ergonomics, time savings, and the ability to take advantage of the developer’s warranty on installation work. However, these changes can incur additional costs, so it’s worth carefully considering the scope of the modifications and their impact on your budget.
To make the right decision, it is also worth consulting an interior designer in advance. and define your preferences. A professional can help you assess whether and what changes will be necessary to enjoy a functional apartment that meets your needs.
