After much consideration, you’ve found your contractor. They’ve earned your trust and are as eager as you are to start on your project. What comes next? Here are some topics to help you get the ball rolling without any snags.

Make a Wish List

Make a wish list and share it with your contractor. This will give him/her insight on your vision. Together you can work on making the list happen within the scope of your time and budget. Remember communication is key.

Keep Changes to a Minimum

Change is good, but too much change can eat up time and money! Remember that the more you change the plans around, the longer it will take for the project to be completed and will cost you more money. When going over your wish list, come up with 2-3 variations and vote on the best one.

Set Limits

For your safety and that of the contractor, set limits inside and outside of the home. Inside, protect your valuables by locking them in a safe or moving them elsewhere. Keep in mind that there will be dust and debris around the worksite. If you have a habit of leaving your Nobel Peace Prize laying around, we suggest you put it away. Outside, make sure to indicate the perimeter of your property and what parts are off limits. The last thing you want is your neighbor asking about the stack of materials on their property. Lastly, when it comes to sharing the restroom, we suggest budgeting in a portable. Most places will rent them for under $100 per month, which includes delivery, and pick up.

Create a Contact List

Depending on the size of your project, you may have anywhere from 1 to 10 separate entities working in your home. Create a list of all your points of contact for easy communication.

Meetings

It’s important to stay informed with the progress of your renovation. If your project is a lengthy one, schedule weekly meetings with your contractor for all updates. On a side note – remember that you hired your contractor to supervise the project. Any concerns or questions should be addressed with him and never the crew.

The last paint strokes are being applied and cleanup is underway. What started as a vision, is nearly a reality. This last bit of information addresses the final steps of your project and what comes next. Enjoyment of your newly remodeled home or room is right around the corner.

Perform a Final Walk-through

Grab some paper and a pen, its time for a punch list. Take your time and make sure to ask questions if there is something that you don’t understand. Keep your list and revisit it when your contractor states it will be done.

Create a File

Whether it’s hard copies or digital, make sure to keep all receipts and records from your project. Some items such as appliances, light fixtures, ceiling fans may come with a store or manufacturer warranty. Keep your records in a safe place incase you have to access them later.

Final Payment

How you wrote up the contract will vary in percentage, either way, its time for the last installment. Make sure that all work has been completed to your satisfaction before releasing payment and signing off on anything.

You project is now complete.
How was your experience?

References and Referrals

Your project is finally done! Be sure to share the experience by referring friends and family. Also, a good contractor will keep a list of references for future prospects to refer to. Help them out by agreeing to be a reference.

Feedback

If you were refereed by a third party such as Angie’s List or HomeAdvisor, be sure to leave feedback. Most companies also have a Facebook page or are part of the BBB. Let others know how well your experience went.