Renovation Update (Part 3): ✨ 2 Days Before Handover
After Part 1 and Part 2, I honestly never thought there would be a Part 3.
Last Friday, we informed our ID that the wrong laminate had been installed. She told us that the rectification work (overlaying the laminate) would take 1–2 days.
Fast forward to Wednesday night.
There was completely no update from her from Mon to Wed. Since the completion date given by her was this Friday, we decided to head down to the unit ourselves on Wed night to check on the progress.
To our horror, there was literally no work done at all from Mon to Wed.
When we contacted her, it took around 2 hours before we received a short voice recording saying everything would still be completed by Friday.
I also reminded her that some electrical sockets had been dirtied and scratched by the contractors previously. She had earlier acknowledged the issue and mentioned that it would be rectified.
Then came Thursday (today).
Around evening time, she forwarded us a message and voice recording from the electrician saying that one of our newly purchased electrical switches could not be found on site. To resolve the issue, she asked us to buy another one and she would waive the cost in the final invoice.
To avoid any delays, I rushed around after work, visiting multiple hardware stores before making my way to our new home.
Unfortunately, none of the shops had stock for the specific 3-gang 2-way switch required.
I called and texted her several times to clarify whether the electrician urgently needed it by tomorrow, but there was no response.
About 2 hours later, she simply replied that her phone battery was low and she had just reached home.
I informed her that I was heading to the unit to inspect the progress and would update her if I noticed anything. I also had several questions I wanted clarification on.
No reply.
As I'm typing this post, it has already been more than 4 hours.
📍Current Status (Tomorrow is supposedly their final working day)
❌ 1 electrical switch missing (I the end, I ordered online & delivery will be on Sat)
❌ Many areas require paint touch-ups
❌ Multiple chipped surfaces need rectification
❌ Previously damaged/scratched socket was reused during installation despite earlier assurance that it would be rectified
❌ Kitchen metal rack issue remains unresolved (reported since Day 3 of renovation)
❌ Skirting works not completed
❌ Cleaning not done
⚠️ Laminate overlay rectification completed, but workmanship is still not ideal and there are chips visible.
At this point, I'm genuinely wondering:
Am I being unreasonable?
I understand that mistakes can happen during renovation. What I struggle to accept is the lack of communication and accountability.
A simple update goes a long way.
An acknowledgement of mistakes goes a long way.
Whenever I ask for clarification, many of my questions are either skipped or brushed aside.
What makes this even more confusing is that months ago, I actually posted about why I chose this ID out of the 9 IDs I met through roadshows and social media advertisements. She also has positive Google reviews.
I never intended to shame anyone online.
I simply wanted a smooth renovation journey like what was promised.
Now I'm left wondering whether my project is considered too small to receive proper attention.
For now, we're still holding onto hope and waiting for the final handover this Sunday night.
Stay tuned for the next update. Hopefully, it will finally be the last episode of this renovation saga. 🤞
Based on my own renovation experiences, I understand how stressful it can be when contractors delay work and communication becomes sparse, especially so close to your handover date. In these final days before you take possession, patience and preparedness are key. One lesson I've learned is to maintain constant, documented communication with your interior designer or renovation team. If possible, request daily progress updates and express concerns immediately by both phone and email to keep a clear record. This helps create accountability and makes it harder for issues to be overlooked or dismissed. When defects like chipped surfaces or reused damaged sockets appear, take dated photos and list these defects clearly during site visits. It allows you to request rectifications before signing off the project. Sometimes, contractors avoid acknowledging problems until they know you are watching closely. Regarding missing items like the 3-gang 2-way electrical switch, it’s smart to have backup plans. Ordering parts online early can save you a scramble at last minute when local stores run out of stock. It also stresses the importance of confirming availability before purchasing. Despite frustrations, try to keep communication professional and solution-focused. Avoid escalating conflicts on social media as it might impact the working relationship. Instead, use online forums or review platforms to seek advice from others and share your experience after the project is complete. In future renovations, consider hiring a dedicated contractor or project manager who can closely supervise daily works and communicate promptly on your behalf. This can reduce delays and improve workmanship quality. Finally, many renovations experience hiccups, but a smooth journey often comes down to proactive communication, clear expectations, and a firm but fair approach with your renovation team. Hopefully, your final handover will bring relief and satisfaction once all issues have been addressed.
Same, im thinking if my project is too small for it to receive proper attention. Mine was worse, there were holes.