It is true that you might save costs by hiring sub-contractors to work on areas that does not require the expertise of an Interior Designer (ID).

But… before you do so, we recommend consulting your IDs first! Not consulting them might jeopardise your renovation. Here are implications you need to consider…

Does it really help you save on costs?

First and foremost, there might be chances where you’re spending more instead. Why? Multiple works in the renovation might be performed by the same sub-contractors hence, you might be double paying for manpower costs. In certain cases, you might even delay the completion of your renovation.

Are you scheduling the renovation correctly?

There are many moving parts in a renovation and some works are best done in a certain order for efficiency and/or practicality purposes. E.g. all hacking and wiring should be done before painting.

Are the sub-contractors reliable?

If the sub-contractors you hire are not competent, the onus falls on you.

Although it is the IDs job to project manage, they are mostly under the mercy of the sub-contractors who are executing the work; because of that, IDs usually have their own ‘dream team’ of sub-contractors that they trust.

Warning: Apart from rectifications costs, having incompetent sub-contractors can be a safety hazard too. E.g. poorly wired electricals might lead to fire hazards or electrocution; ill-fitted plumbing might lead to water tank explosions; shoddy masonry works might lead to structural collapse etc.