Who’s job is it to set the expectations for a remodeling project. Is it the contractor or the homeowner? The answer is yes. It actually it falls on both parties.
For the contractor we need to let the customer know what we will be doing and when. we are in their homes tearing up their kitchens and bathrooms and disrupting their schedules. We do tend to forget sometimes that some things we think of as just part of the job aren’t things the homeowner would automatically think of. Simple things like the need to park somewhere close to the project or removing pictures from the wall on the room next to the project room. I can tell you it’s a sinking feeling to start tearing drywall off a wall and hear a crash in the next room as something falls off the wall.
What time will we be starting and finishing? Do we work on Saturdays? Who are these people we’re sending to their house? And after the excitement of starting the remodel wears off, when will we be finished and out of their lives? These are all things we need to communicate early so that our customers can adjust their schedules and have some clarity during what can be a time of turmoil in their home.
For the homeowner, make sure you understand the contract and what you are getting. You did get a written contract didn’t you? Does it describe the products you’ll be receiving and the level of fit and finish you were expecting? If you wanted stained hardwood trim and the contract calls for painted MDF you need to clarify that now before it’s all hung and painted. It’s always best to ask questions early and often to be sure you’re getting what you want from the start.
Does your homeowner’s association have certain restrictions or requirements that your remodeling contractor needs to know about? What will you do with your pet or children during the project? Something as simple as which door you would prefer we use to get to the work area can make you feel more comfortable during the process but you need to make it known to your contractor.
Some requests are over the top but for the most part if work together to keep both sides clear on what is expected throughout the project it will be a much smoother process. In the end communication is the key to a successful and relatively painless remodel. If both sides keep that in mind it can make all the difference.
Herb Coulter, The Remodeling Company LLC – 804-266-3776
