You are ready for your remodel. What comes next?

My blog Choosing the right design team for your remodel gave you a great check list to find your remodeling team. You are ready to start your dream project. You have gotten your referrals, you may have even seen the work preformed by the team you want to hire but how do you insure a smooth remodel?  Here are my pro tips for working with a remodeling contractor.

How do you know what to expect from the remodeling team you have hired?

Managing expectations is a key component. The most important agreement I created for my team was my contractors agreement. Each contractor I work with signed it. Why? My mantra is “if you don’t have it in writing it doesn’t exist” Having something on paper gives it validity.

So what does that agreement include?

•  Job-site: How is the remodeling area to be maintained. What is expected at the end of each day.  This is a workplace for the contractors but it is still a home to my clients. Respect goes both ways.
• Schedule: Having a schedule and sticking to it is paramount. Once the job begins, unforeseen things can happen. Communication is key. No one wants a job to drag on and on and on.
• The Crew: Make sure everyone knows what is expected of them. We run an extremely clean job site with consummate professionals. I have seen job sites which are a mess. That mess can become dangerous. R.E.S.P.E.C.T. the project
• Teamwork: This may sound silly but it is a great example. “Everyone has to play nice in the sand box.” My team has been working together for 15 years so everyone always works together to create the best possible project for my client. I have seen how terribly wrong things can go when cooperation isn’t there. Back to that concept of respect.
• Mistakes Happen: We are human after all. If something goes wrong, speak up. Better to get the item replaced or reordered as soon as possible so the job is not delayed.
• Safe and Sound: Securing the job-site and the materials should not be ignored. Clean up Sweep up and Lock up.

What about you the client?

Please understand that your “home” is a construction site during your remodel. It is so helpful to remember to keep kids and pets out of the area as much as possible. This is for everyone’s safety. Shoes are a necessity when walking through the site. Try to resist moving things around, you would not want to have something fall and break.

I hope these tips help to make your remodeling experience a good one. If you would like a copy of my firm’s Contractor Agreement send us an email.

Happy Remodeling!