Turnkey renovation in Tuscany: defining the scope of work

Start with a written scope of work

A turnkey renovation should identify the work being commissioned, who coordinates it and the condition in which the property will be handed over. Two quotes using the same label may cover different things. To compare them, establish a common brief: the existing building, proposed work, materials, systems, finishes and exclusions.

For a villa or farmhouse in Tuscany, an initial discussion with MANINI can start with the location, photographs, available plans, intended use and overall budget. If you have not bought the property yet, separate verified information from the checks still needed before purchase.

What should the specification cover?

Building and roof. Identify the elements to retain, repair or replace and the investigations and design work needed. Photographs alone cannot establish structural condition.

Technical systems. Define the required equipment, plant space, service routes and associated building work. A general item such as “complete system” does not identify equipment, performance or the preparation and finishing included.

Windows and finishes. Specify products or selection criteria, installation, quantities, accessories and preparation of existing surfaces. Make material choices early enough for orders and deliveries.

External works and connections. Include access, drainage, paths, garden work and any proposed pool in the discussion, together with connections to utility networks. Work commissioned separately still needs a place in the overall budget.

Who coordinates the renovation?

The appointment should state who collects the owner's decisions, coordinates contractors, updates the programme and flags choices affecting cost or timing. Professional roles and each contractor's responsibilities should be set out in their respective appointments.

Agree how changes will be approved before work starts. Each proposed change needs a description, cost and effect on the programme before the work is authorised. This is especially useful when the owner lives abroad.

Managing the project from abroad

Explain who can make decisions, which choices require a site visit and how often you need an update. Photographs and video are useful when they accompany a record of completed work, outstanding decisions and the next steps.

Plan handover as well: inspection of the agreed work, any items still to complete, system documentation, operating instructions and maintenance information. The exact documents and checks depend on the project and should be agreed in advance.

See completed project references

The MANINI Restorations page includes projects in Sinalunga, Radda in Chianti and Città della Pieve. Use the photographs to discuss materials and the result you want. The scope and budget for your own property require a separate assessment.

What to send for an initial discussion

• Municipality and property location.
• Available photographs and floor plans.
• Purchase status and documents already collected.
• Intended use, proposed work and priorities.
• Overall budget and preferred timing, identifying any fixed deadlines.

Discuss your villa or farmhouse renovation with MANINI. The first discussion establishes a practical next step based on the information available.