Moving into an apartment? 8 points to consider before renovating

Living in an apartment calls for a closer look when the topic is renovation. Unlike houses, properties in condominiums follow specific rules, have structural limitations, and require more rigorous technical planning.

(Freepik/Divulgação)

Before you start knocking down walls or changing finishes, it’s essential to understand what can and can’t be done, which authorizations are required, and how to avoid future problems. Below, we list eight essential points you should evaluate before starting any work.

1. Condominium rules

(Amina Atar/Unsplash/Divulgação)

The first step is to consult the bylaws and the building’s internal regulations. Many condominiums set specific hours for work, rules for the circulation of service providers, protection for elevators, and even require formal notice to neighbors. The building manager may request technical documentation and a renovation schedule. Ignoring these rules can result in fines and even a halt to the work.

2. Mandatory technical standards

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Since the creation of ABNT NBR 16.280, renovations in residential units have required technical responsibility. The standard stipulates that changes involving demolition, replacement of heavy finishes, or plumbing or electrical modifications must have a licensed professional, such as an architect or engineer. The project must be submitted to the condominium before the start of the intervention.

3. Structural elements of the property

Architects discussing plan of the house at meeting (freepik/Divulgação)

Not every wall can be removed. In many apartments, structural elements such as beams, columns, and load-bearing walls cannot be altered. A qualified professional will identify what is structural and what is only partitioning. Improper interventions can compromise the safety of the entire building.

4. Electrical and plumbing systems

(Kraus Muller/Divulgação)

When renovating the kitchen or bathroom, it’s common to want to change outlet locations, lighting, and plumbing points. However, plumbing risers and electrical columns generally cannot be moved. Evaluating the technical feasibility of these changes prevents rework and unexpected costs throughout the work.

5. Acoustic insulation

A instalação de lã de vidro no interior da placa de drywall permite melhor isolamento térmico e acústico, aumentando o conforto e a eficiência do ambiente. (Portal Acústica/Divulgação)

Apartments share walls, slabs, and pipes. A renovation can directly impact the acoustic comfort of the neighbors — and yours as well. Evaluating soundproofing solutions, such as mats and specific finishes, is important both during the work and in the final result of the design.

6. Weight of new finishes

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Replacing the floor or installing a bathtub may seem simple, but the additional weight must be considered. Buildings have load limits per square meter. Very heavy finishes, thick natural stone, or additional masonry structures should be technically assessed to avoid overloading.

7. Construction logistics

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Before starting the renovation, think about logistics: where will materials be stored? How will debris be disposed of? Does the building allow use of the service elevator? A well-planned job considers these details to reduce disruptions and maintain a good relationship with the condominium.

8. Realistic budget and contingencies

(Jakub Zerdzicki/Unsplash/Divulgação)

Finally, it’s essential to have a detailed budget and set aside a margin for contingencies. In apartments, many surprises arise after finishes are removed, such as old leaks or nonstandard installations. Financial planning prevents the work from stalling halfway through.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content-creating agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.