New Flat Interior Checklist: 12 Things to Decide Before Work Starts

Whether you are handing your new flat to a contractor or working with a full-service interior company, these are the twelve decisions that, if left open, cause the most delays, disputes and last-minute cost increases.

Before design begins

1. Budget range (including a 10% contingency). Be honest — a good designer works within your actual budget, not an aspirational one.
2. Move-in date. Work backwards from here to set realistic scope.
3. Primary decision-maker. If both spouses need to approve everything, agree on a process upfront.
4. Rooms in scope vs out of scope. Not every room needs to be done simultaneously.
5. Must-have items. That specific dining table, the grandmother's cabinet that needs to be incorporated — surface these on Day 1.

Before design is finalised

1. Appliance brands and sizes for the kitchen. The hob, hood, oven, dishwasher and refrigerator all affect cabinet dimensions.
2. AC unit types and positions. Ceiling-mounted cassette ACs affect the false ceiling layout significantly.
3. Wardrobe depth preference. Standard is 24 inches; 21 inches saves space but limits hanging.
4. Lighting mood. Warm (2700–3000K) vs cool (4000K+) — a decision that affects every switch and dimmer.

Before work starts

1. Material samples approved in writing. Never from a catalogue — always from a physical sample under your room's light.
2. Payment milestones documented. Typically: 30% on signing, 40% at mid-stage, 30% on completion.
3. Warranty terms in writing. Who covers what, for how long, and what the claim process is.

The checklist is not just for clients — it is for designers too. At Marvel Homes, we walk through every one of these points in our first site visit. The two hours saved then prevent two months of delays later.