Preparation on your side
A good installer manages their side; you manage yours. On install day the work area must be clear, parking for the crane available, neighbours informed, and anything in the loft at risk of damage moved. Structured prep prevents mess and extras.
- Parking restriction request
- 1-2 weeks ahead at municipality (free)
- Dust zone
- 5 m radius around opening
- Neighbour notice
- In person, 1 week ahead
- Post-clean hire
- Optional €120-€250
- Attendance on install day
- Start 07:00 + handover end of day
Concrete one-week checklist
Remove or sheet items in the loft. Cover wall finishes and furniture directly below the dormer (dust drops through gaps and ceiling perforations).
Apply for parking restriction via the municipality (free, 1-2 weeks ahead) or reserve a crane spot. Inform neighbours in person about install day, noise and possible street closure. Keep utility cupboards clear of dust.
The evening before
Park cars off the street (ask partner/neighbours), garden furniture out of the lift line, bikes out of the access path. Keys or access code ready if you're not home in the morning.
Do a quick phone-camera walk-through of loft and top floor as photo evidence of existing state — useful for any damage claim later.
On install day itself
Be present at start (07:00-07:30), confirm any final agreements, and arrange where the crew can use power and water. Point out one outdoor tap and one socket in the garage or utility.
Keep cash or card ready for unforeseen extras (always ask for written confirmation before agreeing). For evening install (rare) check lighting requirements in advance.
Right after install
Clean-up of fine sawdust: 1-2 hours of your own work or hired cleaning (€120-€250). First 48 hours extra ventilation in the dormer room; building moisture must evaporate or you risk mould.
Wait 4-6 weeks before painting: sealant and glue must cure, otherwise paint and plaster flake within a year. In that time you can already replace furniture and start using.
FAQ
- Must I really be home?
- At start (07:00) strongly recommended for arrangements; at handover essential for checklist and signature. In between you may leave, if installer has agreed access.
- What should I cover against dust?
- Everything within 5 m of the opening on the floor below. Especially electronics, plants, bedding and clothes in open closets.
- What does post-install cleaning cost?
- DIY 1-2 hours. Hired €120-€250 for 2-3 hours professional clean including vacuum, mopping and window cleaning.
- What if neighbours don't cooperate on parking?
- Municipal parking ban (free) is legally binding; municipality can tow at owner's cost. Hand the notice to neighbours in advance.
- Can children or pets stay home?
- Better not upstairs (loft is full work zone). Downstairs ok, away from crew paths. Dogs often better elsewhere due to noise stress.