starting renovation this Fall?

[renovationworks2020]

Hello,
I've started enquiring about the renovation job I am planning which is going to affect the whole of the ground floor:

• partial rewiring and moving radiators
• replastering of walls in both reception and dining room, potentially replacing suspended floor.
• new kitchen and an RSJ in the kitchen ( I am not extending but opening up the kitchen in an existing lean-to)

I was chatting to a builder on Friday who seemed quite honest about pros and cons and, although he could potentially have room to start works in September/October he also mentioned there is a shortage of plaster atm and that the works are going to take 8 to 10 weeks. I was hoping to start the works in September but now I am wondering if it would be wiser to wait for early next year, say February.

From one side I could spend another winter in the house as it is, on the side I would have loved to get all out of the way and have a new kitchen by Christmas.

Are you absolutely certain it would be completely finished by Christmas? As a mostly-finished renovation is a pain if you're entertaining and it might be easier to start after.

We've just had an 80m2 extension plastered and no issues with getting hold of plaster. Our builder may have ordered it a while back but he's not mentioned any issues. If they're not due to start for two months then surely that's enough time to source some?

If he's the builder you want then I'd get him booked in. Tbh, I wouldn't be overly worried about it cramping your style over Xmas, I doubt large family gatherings will be on the cards.

I guess I am more concerned about the works ending up taking much longer because of potential lockdown, infections etc. I am not planning to entertain anyone this Christmas but I don't want to be living in a total mess and potentially without a kitchen for longer than is needed.