Local contractors are primarily focused on structural safety, because even where the tectonic plates diverge, as is the case on the Azores, there is some seismic activity, albeit less than where these plates collide or slide over each other and generally more tectonic force buildup is possible.
” When tendering, it is important to note that the local level of real estate finishing may differ from what is common elsewhere.. “
When tendering, it is important to note that the local level of real estate finishing may differ from what is common elsewhere. A local contractor focuses primarily on what is available or easily obtained from the various suppliers on the islands, and both are basic, although it is possible to make some special orders.
The vision of interior architecture and design can also clash with common conventions on the islands. Such as reconstructions where the spatial layout is done with a minimal number of doors, or large and unblinded window areas in bedrooms and bathrooms with quite open views and not just of the sea. It can raise many eyebrows.
Of importance is, in any case, that some building materials are not kept in stock at all or only to a very limited extent, even where in many countries you almost automatically assume that it will be easy to obtain locally at all times. Especially in the winter months, this also depends on what the weather has allowed for interim supplies. It can happen that construction work cannot continue for some time because the boat bringing in fairly basic products such as cement simply cannot dock.
This is why many parties choose to have at least the basic supplies purchased from local suppliers and in storage for call-off, and, when necessary, to ship in other specifically desired building materials and supplies with a container of household goods if they cannot be ordered through the regular local network. In all cases, this requires good preparation and planning.
A tried-and-true combination is to do precisely the shell construction phases as much as possible with local materials from a distance, and to visit each time a construction phase is completed to discuss and schedule the subsequent construction phase. If you plan that well, you can easily combine that with the vacation periods, after which the follow-up work can take place in the fall through spring.
