An activity or measure carried out to renovate, modernize, or restore a building, a company, or an area. Usually used in the plural as 'Sanierungsarbeiten' (renovation works).
example
Die umfangreiche Sanierungsarbeit an der alten Schule wird mehrere Millionen Euro kosten.
The extensive renovation work on the old school will cost several million euros.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Sanierung' (renovation/restoration), the linking 's', and 'Arbeit' (work). 'Sanierung' comes from the verb 'sanieren' (to renovate/restore), which means to make something 'healthy' or functional again. So it is literally the work done to heal something.
EXAMPLE
Die Sanierungsarbeit am alten Rathaus ist sehr aufwendig.
The renovation work on the old town hall is very involved.
Often plural
Most of the time, the word is used in the plural as 'Sanierungsarbeiten' (renovation works). This is because a renovation often includes many different activities and steps, which are collectively referred to as 'Arbeiten' (works).
EXAMPLE
Wegen der Sanierungsarbeiten ist die Brücke gesperrt.
Because of the renovation work, the bridge is closed.
Typical collocations
Common verbs in this context are 'Sanierungsarbeiten durchführen' (to carry out renovation work), 'beginnen' (to begin), or 'abschließen' (to complete). Typical adjectives are 'umfangreich' (extensive), 'notwendig' (necessary), or 'kostspielig' (costly).
EXAMPLE
Die Firma führt umfangreiche Sanierungsarbeiten am Gebäude durch.
The company is carrying out extensive renovation work on the building.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Sanierungsarbeit vs Modernisierung
modernization
'Modernisierung' and 'Sanierungsarbeit' can both describe renewal. 'Modernisierung' emphasizes that something is adapted to today's technology, methods, or ideas. 'Sanierungsarbeiten' emphasize more that something is being brought back into good condition, for example a building, an area, or even a company. This can involve damage, old structures, or major problems. The words can be confused because renovation work can also include modern solutions. If the new standard is important, 'Modernisierung' fits. If restoring or improving a poor condition is important, 'Sanierungsarbeiten' fits better.
Sanierungsarbeit
Die Sanierungsarbeiten an der alten Brücke dauern bis Ende des Jahres.
The renovation work on the old bridge will last until the end of the year.
Modernisierung
Wegen der Modernisierung gibt es im Krankenhaus jetzt digitale Patientenakten.
Because of the modernization, the hospital now has digital patient records.