Thinking of hiring a contractor to renovate your home? Think twice.
Even a small project, like redoing your bathroom or basement, might have you tiptoeing around sawdust, tools and workmen for days, weeks, and maybe even months. Before handing over your living space to strangers, it’s important to understand as much as you can about the business of home renovation, including what you can and can’t expect from your contractor. Here are some things your contractor many not tell you but which you absolutely need to know…
YOUR CONTRACTOR WON"T SAY...
“I regularly go over budget.”
Honest contractors, at least, intend to stay on budget, but unforeseen circumstances and changes can befall any project. And every deviation from the original plan can potentially cost you money. To keep your project on track, home improvement expert Barbara K recommends creating a contract that outlines the agreed-upon tasks along with all materials and fixtures (including model numbers and prices). Consult with your contractor to determine start and end times, lead times on equipment and materials, and also details on cleanup, supervision, rubbish removal and insurance requirements. Use the contract as a checklist and date each task when completed.
“Here’s the hammer, there’s the nail…”
Your contractor is like a doctor. Busy. And he probably doesn’t have time to discuss the basics of construction with you. Learn to talk the talk yourself. A good starting book is: Home Improvement All-in-One for Dummies
Also don’t miss Barbara K’s terrific books: Invest in Your Nest: Add Style, Value and Comfort to Your Home (Rodale Press) and Room for Improvement: Change Your Home! Enhance Your Life! With Tools, Tips, and Inspiration from Barbara K! Check our local stores for other helpful aids.
“I botched my last four jobs.”
Your contractor is not about to fess up to failures, so it’s up to you to investigate his or her reputation. Call the Better Business Bureau or the Department of Consumer Affairs to check if any complaints have been filed. Ask for references from previous clients and, if possible, visit the sites for yourself. Some questions to ask previous clients: Did you like the end result? Was the work completed on time? Was the contractor easy to communicate with? Did the final bill come close to the estimate? And if not, did the contractor notify you of changes in advance?
“You'll never be able to find me.”
Your contractor may not plan to be on your site every day, but it’s important that you know that so you can plan accordingly. Ask you contractor who will be entering your home on a day-to-day basis and who’s in charge. If your contractor has assigned another on-site supervisor, make sure you have all the contact information.
“So, don’t pay me if you don't like it.”
Like all professionals, your contractor expects to be paid for work and materials, but you need some protection. Make sure your contract includes language that allows you to withhold money for work that is incomplete, incorrect or poorly done. You should also have a default clause that allows you to obtain quotes from other builders or trades people if the work is late or unfinished. Generally, the repair costs are paid by you but deducted from the amount owed the original builder. Barbara K suggests not paying the last ten percent of the total until all agreed-upon tasks have been completed.
“Oops, I don’t have any insurance.”
A contractor can’t be held responsible for things like natural weather disasters or even late or wrong deliveries by third parties. But do make sure your contractor has workman’s compensation and general liability insurance. Otherwise, you may be liable if an accident happens on your property. Verify with the insurance company that the policies are active, and that you are included among the “additionally insured.”
“I’d like a tip.”
Those are words you’ll probably never hear from a builder, but if you really love the work, you might consider showing appreciation above and beyond the fee. One contractor online suggests avoiding cash gifts or tools and instead opting for something the contractor might personally love. A weekend cruise, a trip to the next professional convention or a simple pizza party for the entire team might be really appreciated and could ensure even better work on your home in the future.