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 FAQ In an effort to help homeowners understand the remodeling process, and avoid most of the problems that can occur, we have selected a few questions which are frequently asked by clients and others involved in remodeling. If you have questions regarding remodeling, please feel free to contact us and we will do our best to provide a timely and helpful response. What should my criteria be for hiring a contractor? They should of course be licensed, (by the state) bonded, (to protect your possessions from employee theft and to insure completion of the work) carry liability insurance, (adequate to protect your property, family and visitors) carry workman's compensation insurance, (to protect you from liability and provide medical care in the event a worker is injured on the job) and have a substantial list of satisfied clients with both completed work and jobs in progress for you to visit. (Be sure to do so.) Beyond these basics there are a number of other criteria including the personality and communication skills of the person who will actually be overseeing the work. Why do so many remodeling projects end in disappointment? The primary reason is a lack of adequate planning. For a variety of reasons homeowners often neglect to invest the necessary time and energy in planning and specifying their project, leaving too much to memory and the personal interpretation of contractors and suppliers. One of the reasons, is the fact that it is very difficult to obtain sufficient accurate information regarding remodeling projects to form a good plan. Do I need a state licensed architect to design my project? Currently you do not need an architect to design the project or draw the plans, although a licensed engineer must provide structural, energy and geological calculations when required. There is a movement within the architectural community lobbying to make it illegal to obtain permission to remodel without a licensed architect stamping the plans. This would of course put money in the pockets of some, add no value and increase the cost of remodeling. How should the payment schedule be structured with my contractor? No matter how ethical and professional your contractor is, things happen. Sometimes these things are beyond anyone's control but can create a serious situation if you have paid for more than you have received at any given point, It is wise to pay incrementally (more often and in smaller amounts) than for either you or your contractor to get too far ahead of the other.Next |
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