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Category: Construction

Construction

  • Paying your contractor? Here’s what you need to know first

    Embarking on a home renovation or construction project is an exciting venture. However, when it comes to settling the bill, it’s crucial to ensure that the work is up to your expectations. Paying your contractor without thorough checks can lead to complications, especially if the job isn’t completed to your satisfaction.

    construction
    Milivoj Kuhar

    Why you shouldn’t rush the payment

    It’s a common scenario: the project is nearing its end, and your contractor presents the final bill. While it might be tempting to settle the payment and move on, doing so without a thorough inspection can be a mistake. If you pay the entire amount without addressing any concerns, you might inadvertently signal your approval of the work. This can make it challenging to raise issues or seek corrections later on.

    Communication is key

    If you notice that the work isn’t up to the mark or there are pending tasks, it’s essential to communicate with your contractor. Always have a record of your communication, such as an email detailing your concerns. This not only serves as a reminder for the contractor but also provides you with evidence should any disputes arise.

    If your contractor doesn’t respond to your initial communication, consider sending a registered letter. This formal approach ensures that your concerns are documented and emphasizes the seriousness of the matter.

    Settling the undisputed amount

    While it’s essential to hold back payment for unsatisfactory work, it’s equally important to show goodwill. If a portion of the job meets your expectations, consider paying that amount. This gesture demonstrates your intention to settle the bill once all concerns are addressed.

    To determine the amount to pay, assess the value of the completed work versus the pending tasks. It’s advisable to set aside the disputed amount rather than transferring it to the contractor. Paying the entire bill might lead to complacency, and the contractor might not prioritize the pending tasks.

    Protecting your interests

    Home renovation and construction projects are significant investments. As a homeowner, it’s your right to ensure that you get value for your money. Here are some additional tips to protect your interests:

    Document everything

    From the initial contract to email exchanges, ensure that you have a record of all communications and agreements. This documentation can be invaluable in case of disputes.

    Seek expert advice

    If you’re unsure about the quality of work, consider getting a second opinion. An independent expert can assess the job and provide feedback.

    Know your rights

    Familiarize yourself with local regulations and consumer rights related to construction and renovation projects. This knowledge can empower you during negotiations.

    Consider mediation

    If you and your contractor can’t reach an agreement, consider mediation. A neutral third party can help both sides come to a resolution.

    Conclusion

    While it’s natural to want to wrap up a project and settle all dues, it’s crucial to ensure that the work meets your expectations. By communicating effectively, documenting everything, and knowing your rights, you can ensure a successful project outcome and protect your investment.

  • Understanding shared walls: Your rights and responsibilities in Belgium

    Shared walls, often found between two adjoining properties, can be a source of many questions for homeowners. Whether it divides two homes or two gardens, understanding the legalities and responsibilities associated with these walls is crucial. Let’s delve into the nuances of shared walls in Belgium and clarify common misconceptions.

    brick wall
    Asher Ward

    What is a shared wall?

    A shared wall, or “mur mitoyen” as it’s known in French, is a wall that separates two adjacent properties. At the outset, it’s essential to note that such walls can be either shared (mitoyen) or private (privatif). They can also be partially shared or partially private. In simple terms, if both neighbors co-own the wall, it’s considered shared. However, this isn’t always the case. The rights and obligations associated with the wall vary depending on its legal status, making it vital to ascertain this status.

    Shared or private?

    Typically, a wall’s status is specified in documents like an authentic deed, a property title, or even a court judgment. If not, the Belgian Civil Code provides two presumptions of shared ownership:

    1. Any separating wall between two buildings is presumed shared up to the “héberge” (the demarcation between the part of the wall separating the two structures and the part serving only the taller structure).
    2. Any wall separating courtyards and gardens is presumed shared.

    However, there’s no presumption of shared ownership for a wall separating a building from a garden or courtyard. In such cases, the wall is private to the building it supports. But property titles can sometimes override this general rule.

    Can you build on a shared wall?

    Traditionally, for houses with two or three facades, it’s generally accepted that the first builder must erect a separating wall on the edge of their property. As highlighted by immobilierhainaut.be in their January 2023 article, construction recommendations suggest a minimum wall thickness of 30 cm. It’s crucial to understand that the first builder cannot prevent the new neighbor from using the shared wall. Similarly, if the second builder doesn’t use the wall, they can’t undertake any work on it without the first builder’s permission.

    In practice, any new construction on an existing shared wall requires the consent of the concerned owners and must adhere to the local urban planning rules. Additionally, one must seek permission from the local municipality, accompanied by professionally drafted plans. The municipal authorities will ensure the project aligns with the prevailing urban planning rules and will subsequently inform you of their decision.

    Tip: Always consult an architect or your municipality’s urban planning department before starting any construction on a shared wall. This ensures your project’s compliance with current regulations.

    Conclusion

    Shared walls come with their set of complexities, rights, and responsibilities. While they offer opportunities for co-ownership and shared responsibilities, they also require mutual understanding and respect between neighbors. In Belgium, where historical charm meets modern infrastructure, understanding the intricacies of shared walls is essential for harmonious living. Before making any decisions related to shared walls, always seek expert advice and ensure you’re well-informed about the legalities involved.

  • Choosing the right builder for your dream home

    Building a home is often a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor. It’s a significant investment, both financially and emotionally. Given its importance, choosing the right partner for your construction project in Belgium becomes paramount. How can you ensure that the builder you select will honor their commitments and deliver your dream home?

    home builder

    The importance of informed decision-making

    Constructing a home is not something most people do frequently. Hence, learning from past mistakes might not be an option. Mistakes made during the construction process can have long-lasting implications. Therefore, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible about the construction process and potential builders before diving in.

    Seeking recommendations

    While advice from friends, family, or neighbors can be invaluable, consulting with your architect can offer insights from a professional standpoint. They are familiar with the intricacies of the industry and can guide you towards reliable builders based on your project’s requirements and chosen materials. According to Article 22 of the Belgian architects’ code of ethics, architects are obligated to assist clients in choosing a builder. They must consider the builder’s reputation, competence, and the guarantees they offer. If an architect fails in this duty and it results in a detriment to you, their liability can be invoked. However, proving that a loss occurred due to the architect’s oversight is essential.

    Financial stability of the builder

    If you’re opting for a turnkey home, where a single builder oversees the entire construction process, it’s vital to select a company with the necessary experience and financial stability. Don’t rely solely on word-of-mouth recommendations. Access the company’s annual accounts and financial status through public platforms like the National Bank of Belgium and the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises. This due diligence is equally crucial for smaller renovation projects.

    Understanding the fine print

    After shortlisting potential reliable partners, initiate discussions for quotations. Take your time comparing the quotes, looking beyond just the total cost. Examine the scope of work, applicable terms, and, importantly, the “fine print” that might lead to unexpected expenses later on.

    Advance payments

    Financial aspects, such as the advance payment stipulated in the contract, are crucial. As the client, it’s in your best interest to minimize this amount. This reduces potential losses in the unfortunate event of the builder’s bankruptcy. While there’s no legal cap on the advance amount, the “Breyne” law, applicable when the builder and seller are the same entity, limits it to 5% of the total price. In other scenarios, any advance payment should be mutually agreed upon, and builders cannot unilaterally demand it.

    Price escalations

    In the current inflationary environment, it’s essential to know that builders generally can’t hike their prices without valid reasons. However, if the general terms include a clause allowing price revision due to extended project durations, they might do so. Being forewarned is being forearmed.

    Conclusion

    Building your dream home in Belgium is an exciting journey. However, the path can be fraught with challenges. By equipping yourself with the right knowledge and partnering with a reliable builder, you can navigate this journey smoothly. Remember, it’s not just about constructing a house; it’s about building a haven for memories, laughter, and love.

  • Identifying load-bearing walls in your home

    Every home is a complex structure made up of various elements, with walls being one of the most prominent. While some walls are merely partitions, others play a crucial role in supporting the structure of the house. If you’re considering a renovation or remodeling project, it’s essential to know which walls you can safely remove and which ones are vital for the structural integrity of your home. In this guide, we’ll delve into how to recognize load-bearing walls and the steps to take before making any significant changes.

    load-bearing wall

    Understanding the importance of load-bearing walls

    Load-bearing walls are indispensable components of a home. They support essential elements like staircases or the floors of the levels above. Typically, exterior walls and facades are load-bearing. However, if parts of the house have been added over time, what was once an exterior wall might now be an interior one. This transition requires careful consideration before making any modifications.

    Consulting your home’s blueprints

    Recognizing a load-bearing wall can be challenging without the right information. One of the most reliable ways to identify them is by consulting the construction plans of your home. These blueprints will provide detailed information about various walls, helping you pinpoint the load-bearing ones. If you’re uncertain or find the plans hard to interpret, seeking professional assistance is advisable.

    Even without the construction plans, certain characteristics can hint at a wall’s load-bearing nature. These walls are typically made of sturdy materials like stone or brick. Additionally, they often have a thickness exceeding twenty centimeters. If you don’t have access to your home’s blueprints, you can usually request them from your local municipality.

    Recognizing supporting beams

    Besides walls, supporting beams, or “poutres porteuses,” play a crucial role in a home’s structure. These beams often carry a significant portion of the house’s weight. It’s essential not to remove walls adjacent to or supporting these beams. When it comes to floor joists, if a wall runs perpendicular to them or if they end within the wall, it’s likely a load-bearing wall.

    Observing foundational clues

    Another way to identify a load-bearing wall is by observing the structures above it. If there’s another wall, room, or any heavy construction directly above, it’s typically a sign that the wall below is load-bearing. Additionally, examining the crawl space or “vide sanitaire” can provide insights. A wall without any additional foundation is generally not load-bearing.

    Seeking professional advice

    If you’re determined to modify or remove load-bearing walls, always consult a professional. Proper preparations are crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of your home. For new constructions, discussing with your architect about the weight your load-bearing walls can support is essential. Moreover, any changes that might affect your home’s stability need to be reported.

    Conclusion

    Renovating or remodeling a home is an exciting venture. However, understanding the structural elements, especially load-bearing walls, is crucial for a successful and safe project. Before making any significant changes, always consult with professionals, be it architects or structural engineers. They can provide valuable insights and ensure that your dream renovation doesn’t compromise the safety of your Belgian home.