26.08.2024

Legal obligations and costs when renovating a stone house

Legal obligations and costs when renovating a stone house

As with any real estate, before renovating an old stone house, it is necessary to consider all possible costs and make a financial plan. The special feature of the adaptation of an old stone house lies in the Protection and Construction Laws that protect cultural heritage and the environment. In this article, we will list possible aspects that affect the cost of renovation and Croatian laws that need to be paid attention to before starting the project.

Costs of renovation of an old stone house
The cost of renovating an old stone house can vary significantly depending on various factors
  • Size of the house
     
    Larger stone houses are likely to require more materials and more time to rebuild, which will affect costs
  • Condition of the house
     If the house is in poor condition, with damaged walls, roof or structural problems, the renovation will be more complex and expensive. In such cases, additional time and  resources may be required to address structural issues prior to actual
     restoration.
  • Materials
    Choosing the right materials for the renovation of a stone house can affect its total costs. Traditional materials such as natural stone, wood and traditional coatings can be more expensive than modern alternatives. Quality materials often have a higher price, but contribute to the durability and authenticity of the renovation.
  • Additional works
    Sometimes during renovations, additional work may be discovered that needs to be done, such as replacement or repair of additional elements such as electrical, plumbing and heating. These additional works can further increase the renovation costs.
  • Professional services.
    If you decide to hire professionals such as architects, builders or conservators, this will also affect the cost of the renovation. The cost of their services will depend on their expertise and the complexity of the project.
It is important to note that every stone house renovation project is unique and costs will vary. It is recommended that you consult with several professionals, get cost estimates and create a detailed financial plan before starting the renovation. In this way, you can better calculate the costs and be prepared for possible unexpected costs during the renovation of the old stone house.

Legalities of renovation of an old house
The renovation or adaptation of an old stone house is usually subject to different positive legal regulations.

Law on the Protection and Preservation of Cultural Property
Old stone houses are often part of the cultural heritage and can be protected by law as immovable cultural property or are located in a culturally historical part of the settlement that is under special conservation protection. Depending on the area in which the house is located, it may be necessary to obtain a permit or approval from the relevant authorities (the relevant conservation department and the building department) before you start the renovation. The purpose of this law is to protect and preserve stone houses in their original and intact state, and to pass on cultural assets to future generations.

Construction Law
When renovating a stone house, you must comply with the Construction Act, and indirectly with local spatial plans and urban plans of the settlement where the old stone house is located. These regulations usually regulate aspects such as dimensions, safety, structure, roofing and etc. Before renovating, it is important to check with the relevant building or planning authorities to make sure you comply with all regulations.

Planning and permits
Depending on the extent of the renovation, it may be necessary to create a detailed renovation plan and obtain the appropriate permits. This is especially true for larger projects involving structural changes or house extensions. Ensure that renovation projects are carried out legally and that all prescribed procedures are followed.
It is important to consult professionals such as architects, builders or legal advisors to ensure that you comply with all relevant laws and regulations when renovating an old stone house. They will provide you with the necessary guidance and assistance to ensure that your renovation is legal, safe and compliant with applicable regulations.