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You’ve decided to renovate your home or part of it. This can be a stressful situation for anyone. What should you do or avoid doing? Should you hire a consultant or a contractor? We’re here to help. The following is a checklist to assist in making your home improvement job a smooth and pleasant experience.
You’ve made the decision to renovate your home. It is time to shop around. Researching potential contractors is essential in narrowing down your search. It is important to choose a personality that you like and someone who shares your vision for your home. Read our home improvement guide for more detailed information.
Remodeling or renovating your home can be an exciting time, but it is a time of many changes. It is best to plan ahead for when the crew is in your home, and until your project is complete. We have created a list of items to consider during the process. We recommend that you download and print our home improvement guide which includes helpful tips about the process.
Yes, we would be glad to provide you with references upon request. It is highly recommended that you ask your contractor for references. If they do not provide you with references you should consider choosing another contractor.
For the most part, a building permit is usually required when there is structural modifications to your home. Each jurisdiction has different codes based upon what city or county you reside in. Contractors should know when a permit is needed and how to acquire one. For more information, contact your city or county representative.
Due to the differing scope of projects, you can plan accordingly based on whether you are doing small home improvements or larger home renovations. Many projects take longer than expected due to the contractor attempting to complete multiple projects at the same time. This adds to both the time and frustration for the client. When choosing your contractor, make sure your project is priority and they have a crew committed solely to completing your project in a timely manner.
When determining how much your project may cost there are many factors to consider. These may depend upon how detailed your project is, whether there is minor or major renovations being completed, and the costs of overall materials. To ensure that your estimate is accurate, we evaluate it in a step by step process that is precise so that no additional costs are needed to complete your project.
There are many factors to consider when hiring a contractor. If the estimate seems too low or too high, you may want to inquire. Ask questions and make sure you understand all the information provided to you in the estimate. Always keep in mind that going with a lower bid may not only compromise quality but costs not included or omitted may be added once your project has begun.
Any additional costs can be contributed to changes or unforeseen issues not identified within the initial estimate. Completed estimates are based solely upon the project description and initial inspection of the project work site. Estimate could change upon discovery of the need for additional work and or materials once the project has started. Any alterations or deviation from the specifications involving extra costs will be executed only upon written consent and will become an extra charge over and above the initial estimate. All agreements, contingent upon strikes, accidents or delays are beyond the contractors control.
Payment arrangements will be made with your contractor as stated in your contract. You should never give a contractor the full amount before your home improvement project is complete. An installment plan will be agreed upon with you and your contractor. Make sure that all work has been completed to your satisfaction before releasing the final payment installment.
The best way to avoid being another victim is to do your research and ask questions. We can’t stress how important it is to voice your questions, opinions and concerns in addition to doing research on the company/contractor you are considering hiring.