Does a renovation grant cover structural and finishing works?

Two kinds of works

Andrew Cachia of grants.mt starts from how a renovation divides. On one side, structural works — "dropping walls or opening windows, or heavier works like that." On the other, "finishing works, which would involve plastering, plumbing, electricity and so forth."

Why the split matters

The distinction isn't academic, because "oftentimes, the grant might actually split these two costs. Therefore, if you're only performing finishing works, you may not be eligible for the full amount, but rather only for the allotted part of the grant that covers the finishing works." Read the scheme's guidelines "to ensure you know exactly what you are getting yourself into."

If you're not sure, ask before you spend

Sometimes neither you nor your architect or contractor can tell whether a piece of work qualifies. Andrew's advice is to settle it before the money goes out: "contact the relevant authorities and clear any uncertainties or doubt you may have, to avoid any unpleasant surprises later down the line."

Build it into the budget

Knowing which part of the works a grant may cover is part of setting the budget. Perit Matthew James Mercieca from MJM|DA explains how a renovation budget's contingency shrinks as the design and contract documents firm up — and what's worth spending on in the first place.

Sources

• Andrew Cachia — Yitaku Asks videos (structural vs finishing works; grants often split the two costs; finishing-only works may qualify only for the finishing allotment; when unsure, ask the relevant authority first)
• Individual grant scheme guidelines — eligible expenses vary by scheme