Remodeling
We are one of a few quality builders that will take on remodeling jobs. That doesn’t mean, however, that we will take on all remodeling jobs. To start with, remodeling in Costa Rica is difficult and expensive. Here is a sample list of the types of problems one is likely to encounter:
- The original plans may not be available.
- The house, especially the plumbing and electrical were not built according to the plans.
- The foundations were not built to the original plans, were not built properly, or cannot support a second level.
- The concrete that was used does not meet the building codes.
- The quality of the existing construction is not suitable for additions.
- The cost of a remodel job may exceed the cost of buying another lot and building from scratch.
Remember that over 90% of all construction in Costa Rica is concrete block. The plumbing and electrical wiring is run inside of the block and under a concrete floor which makes it extremely difficult to make changes. It can be done but it is neither cheap nor fast.
Now having listed all of the negatives, in over 50% of the cases we have been able to come up with viable options for the owner. Due to the studies required and considerations of the existing construction, remodeling is more expensive than new construction on a per square meter basis and it costs more to prepare the plans due to all of the necessary historical studies.
If you have a remodel project in mind, please write us and we will be glad to take a look at your ideas and let you know if we can help.
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