Sudheendra NK
Nov 19, 20212 min
We often face this question, especially during the rainy season - should I Rebuild or Renovate my old house?
Most likely - water floods the ground floor or water leaks from the roof. It is really frustrating on both occasions.
It is very easy to say, "Just demolish & rebuild like the way our neighbour has done!".
Before making that decision to rebuild in a knee-jerk reaction, it is good to consider if the renovation is feasible. Why? Because it is good for the environment and good for the pocket too. A lot of environmental resources go into demolition and reconstruction. And good renovation is generally possible in 20-40% of the cost of construction. Finally remember, new construction means not just direct costs but there are hidden costs as well, such as new Approval, new Electricity & Sewage connections, Rental and Shifting costs, etc.
Yes, Sure, it is better to rebuild if the building is in a dilapidated condition or there is a need to repurpose the building - but that is not the same as an instant decision.
Here are some things to consider if Renovation is feasible :
Is ground floor level more than 1 foot below the road level?
Is the ground floor level below the mean level of the stormwater drain?
Is the roof leaking in multiple places?
Is the weathering course damaged beyond repair?
Are the steel rods in the roof corroded beyond 25%?
Have Termites eaten the bricks?
Are the Toilets on the Ground Floor getting flushed back?
Has Rain Water Harvesting been done properly up to the weathered rock and still rain floods the compound?
Are the Living areas / Bedrooms leaking?
If the answer is YES for most of the above questions then Rebuild is a better option.
But if the answer is NO for most of them, then just go with Renovation and contribute to the environment and save some money too.