F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)

1What sets Think Construction apart from other contractors?

Think Construction self performs all work with the exception of flooring, paint, & hard surface countertops. We control 100% of the process and outshine the competition with attention to detail and pride ourselves with our craftsmanship.

2What is the warranty for remodeled units and the process if such an issue arises?

Think Construction Services provides a 1 year warranty for our units against craftsmanship and defects. Appliances, flooring, countertops, fixtures, and hardware are covered minus normal wear and tear. Warranty is effective upon completion of unit. Warranty process is hassle free! TCS handles the warranty from start to finish with minimal action from management.

3How do we know how long the water & drain pipes in our walls will last?

Supply lines under constant pressure will fail sooner than pipes without such as drain lines. The materials that can be in the walls are- CPVC, PVC, Galvanized, Brass, Copper or Cast iron. The typical life span for Brass is 40-70 years, Copper 20-50 years, Galvanized Steel 20-50 years, Cast Iron 75-100 years, CPVC 20+, PVC 20+.

4What is the lifespan of split system equipment in apartments?

Typically the standard split A/C or Heat pump has a useful life of 12 years before the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the system.

5Can anything be done to extend the life of the cast iron drain lines in our building?

Generally if the pipe is in good shape and not at the point of mass failure it can be cleaned and lined with an epoxy based liner that will extend the pipe life 40+ years. It is also less intrusive than pipe replacement in the walls, floors & ceilings.

6How do I choose a multifamily renovation contractor?

Pick based on proven multifamily experience, not general construction. You want a contractor who understands occupied units, tight timelines, and phased work. Ask for real project examples, not stock photos. If they cannot show repeat work with property managers, move on.

7Can your company handle high volume?

TCS has the ability to handle multiple, high volume projects. From small projects to 20 units a month, TCS has the ability to mobilize quickly, multiple material sources, and can begin to execute a schedule quickly.

8What should I look for in a construction company?

You would look for multifamily experience and make sure they’re licensed. Also look for three things: speed, consistency, and communication. Anyone can renovate one unit well. The real test is doing 50–200 units on schedule without constant issues. If they cannot clearly explain their process, they do not have one.

9What questions should I ask a renovation contractor?

What is their experience and how many units have they renovated. How many multifamily units have you completed? How do you handle occupied renovations? What is your average timeline per unit? How do you control costs and change orders? Who is my day-to-day contact? If they dodge specifics, that is a red flag.

10How do I compare construction bids?

Stop looking at price alone. Compare scope, materials, timeline, and exclusions. Cheap bids usually mean missing scope or future change orders. The lowest number is often the most expensive mistake. We would give the scope of work to each of them and the same spec for materials.

11Why hire a contractor experienced in multifamily renovations?

It’s very important for the contractor to know the business because multifamily is operational, not just construction. You are managing residents, leases, and revenue. An inexperienced contractor will slow leasing, upset tenants, and create turnover risk.

12What happens in the event additional work is discovered during the renovation that was not previously agreed upon at time of pre-walk?

TCS will send an email to the property manager to include description of additional work along with pictures and cost for approval prior to proceeding with the repairs.

13How do you budget for apartment renovations?

Start with a clear scope per unit, then multiply across phases. Add contingency (10–15%). If you skip contingency, you will blow your budget—guaranteed.

14How many days in advance are required for the unit pre-walks prior to starting the renovation process?

We request to pre-walk the units at a minimum for 30 days prior to the move-out date so we can order the materials and have them onsite when we start the unit.

This also allows the property manager to charge the resident for any damage that may have occurred during their lease.

15What is a CapEx plan for multifamily properties?

Typically this would be a ten year plan of all capital expenditures. A CapEx plan is a long-term roadmap for major upgrades like interiors, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC. It prioritizes spending based on ROI and asset life, not guesswork.

16How do you estimate renovation costs per unit?

Break it down by scope: kitchen, bath, flooring, paint, MEP. Then add labor, materials, and overhead. Average ranges vary widely, but clarity of scope matters more than the number.

17What factors affect renovation costs the most?

Scope creep Material selection Labor availability Occupied vs vacant work Hidden conditions (old plumbing, wiring) Most people underestimate the last one.

18How do you stay on budget during renovations?

Lock the scope early. Standardize materials. Avoid mid-project changes. The fastest way to lose money is indecision during construction.

19How long does a full apartment renovation take?

Turn time is typically 15 to 20 days, with flexibility to scale crews up or down based on ownership needs and project demands.

20How many units can be renovated at once?

To continue with normal operations about 8-10 per month.

21What is the typical renovation schedule for apartments?

8-10 units per month. It follows a repeatable sequence: demo, rough trades, inspections, finishes, punch-out. The key is consistency across units.

22How do you phase apartment renovations?

On normal unit turns monthly. Renovate in sections or buildings to maintain occupancy and cash flow. Never shut down the entire property unless absolutely necessary.

23How do you avoid delays in construction projects?

Pre-plan everything. Materials ordered early. Clear scope. Strong project management. Delays are usually planning failures, not field issues.

24When should apartment plumbing be replaced?

If you have polybutylene, frequent leaks, or aging systems over 25–30 years, it is time. Waiting only increases liability. Also when excessive repairs begin to mount up.

25What is repiping and how much does it cost?

Repiping replaces old plumbing systems with new piping (usually PEX or CPVC). Costs vary widely by property, but delaying it will cost more in damage and insurance issues.

26How long does a repiping project take in apartments?

Final timelines are determined after an on site evaluation by our team. Contact us today and we can figure out the scope of work.

27When should electrical systems be upgraded in apartments?

When they are out of code or excessive repairs begin to mount. When panels are outdated, capacity is insufficient, or you are adding modern appliances. Old systems limit upgrades and create safety risks.

28How much involvement will the property management group have throughout the interior renovation process?

TCS will request for a property representative to pre-walk the unit and sign off on agreed scope. We then request a property representative to final walk the unit when complete to turn the unit back over to management. Management will receive schedule updates via email throughout the process and won’t have much involvement other than the pre-walk and final walk.

29What are signs an apartment HVAC system needs replacement?

Frequent repairs, poor cooling, high energy costs, and systems over 12–15 years old. At that point, replacement is usually smarter than patching.

30What are MEP upgrades in multifamily construction?

MEP stands for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. These are the systems that actually make the building function. Ignore them and your renovation will fail long term.

31What is the cost to renovate an apartment kitchen?

Ranges vary, but typical multifamily kitchens run from moderate upgrades to full replacements depending on cabinets, countertops, and appliances.

32How much does a bathroom remodel cost in apartments?

Bathrooms vary based on tile, fixtures, and plumbing work. Simple refreshes are far cheaper than full gut renovations.

33Should I replace or reface apartment cabinets?

Refacing is cheaper short term. Replacing lasts longer. If the cabinets are structurally worn, refacing is just delaying the inevitable.

34What are the most durable materials for apartment renovations?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring, quartz or laminate countertops, solid-core cabinets, and commercial-grade fixtures. Durability beats aesthetics in multifamily.

35What upgrades attract better tenants?

Modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, durable flooring, and energy-efficient systems. Tenants pay for function and appearance, not gimmicks.

36How do you renovate apartments with tenants in place?

Careful scheduling, clear communication, and fast turnaround. You need a contractor experienced in occupied renovations or it will get messy.

37How disruptive are apartment renovations for residents?

They can be disruptive if poorly managed. Noise, dust, and access are the main issues. Good contractors minimize this with tight scheduling.

38How do contractors minimize disruption during renovations?

Work in short, defined time windows Protect pathways and units Communicate clearly with residents Keep crews organized and fast

39Can tenants stay during apartment renovations?

Yes, depending on scope. Light to moderate renovations can be done with tenants in place. Major work may require temporary relocation.

40How do you handle noise and dust in renovations?

Containment barriers, proper equipment, and disciplined crews. Sloppy contractors create most of the problems.

41How much does it cost to renovate an apartment unit?

It depends on scope, but most projects fall into light, moderate, or full renovation tiers. Anyone giving a single flat number without details is guessing.

42How long does an apartment renovation take per unit?

Typically 1 to 4 weeks, depending on project scope and operational efficiency.

43What is included in a multifamily unit renovation?

Depending on the scope it typically would include new flooring, new granite countertops, new appliances, new plumbing fixtures, new lighting fixtures, new cabinet door fronts and new paint.

44What are the best upgrades to increase apartment value?

Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and systems. New Vinyl plank flooring, new granite countertops and new stainless appliances.

45What is the ROI on apartment renovations?

ROI depends on rent increases, occupancy, and market demand. Well-executed renovations typically drive higher rents and faster lease-ups.

46What renovations increase rent the most?

Kitchens and bathrooms. Always. Everything else supports those two.

47What is the normal duration for a complete unit renovation?

Standard size unit with new paint, flooring, light fixtures, new sinks & faucets, cabinet doors/drawers, granite counter tops, can be completed within 15 business days.