Renovation rarely begins with complete information. Existing drawings may be unavailable, dimensions may have changed, and previous repairs can conceal the original construction. The safest programme starts with verification.
1. Structural condition
Cracking, corrosion, deflection, unauthorised alterations, and unknown foundations can change both the design and the construction sequence.
2. Moisture and water paths
Staining may be distant from the actual source. Roof junctions, wet areas, façades, pools, planters, and ground moisture should be investigated before finishes are replaced.
3. Existing MEP routes
Concealed electrical, water, drainage, air-conditioning, and communication routes affect demolition and may not match available drawings.
4. Actual dimensions and levels
Measured surveys should confirm room sizes, floor levels, openings, boundaries, and critical interfaces before new components are fabricated.
5. Retained-element protection
Finishes, furniture, landscaping, and occupied areas that remain must have clear protection, access, dust, noise, and temporary-service plans.
6. Material compatibility
New waterproofing, repair mortars, coatings, and finishes must be compatible with the existing substrate and previous treatments.
7. Sequence and access
Limited access, operating properties, neighbour constraints, and weather exposure can materially affect preliminaries and programme.
Qadita perspective: controlled opening-up and early investigation cost far less than discovering critical conditions after procurement and demolition have already committed the project.