How to Prepare For and Navigate Your Remodel Project

You’ve decided to do that remodeling project you’ve been wanting to do for a while. You may be thinking you are ready to “pull the trigger” but, before you do, there are several things to consider. Being prepared for what is coming is important and being “broad-sided” by an unexpected event can deflate the excitement you were feeling about the prospect of doing the project. Being prepared, knowing what things need to take place and how the process works can help eliminate the surprise and ease your mind when you have a plan. Here is a list of items to help you prepare and navigate the remodel process:

1. Always start with a plan that lists everything you would like to accomplish with your remodel. Include details that matter to you like design, colors, type of materials, layout, etc. You may have pictures from other sources that help with your ideas. Have a budget in mind that you want to stay under.
   
2. If your remodel project will also include outside features like new windows, new roof, or painting, be sure to check with your HOA, if you have one, regarding any requirements affecting your remodel.
   
3. Meet with your contractor to get an estimate. This should be a long enough meeting to go over everything you want to do. Be prepared to spend plenty of time to allow for the contractor to gather sufficient information like measurements, notes, photos, etc. Sometimes the contractor may be able to give you a “rough figure” so you can know if the project scope will exceed your budget.
   
   Depending on the project type, like a kitchen remodel for example, you may need a drawing or rendering showing style, type, and dimensions, so you can visualize it. The contractor may be able to help with the design without having to go to an architect. However, this will probably cost for the time and effort to have it done. Final measurements are usually done by the cabinet builder and countertop fabricator after an agreement is made between you and your contractor.
   
4. Get a clear and concise contract between you and your contractor that states the complete scope of the work to be done, including things like the type of materials, the colors, the style, etc. A complete contract should not leave you wondering about anything and you should ask questions if you are unclear about anything that is proposed.
   
   The contract might also include the approximate timing of the project to include start and finish. This is to prevent delaying your job in order to start another. However, though delays can certainly happen, both you and your contractor deserve commitment to the contract.
   
5. Once the work is scheduled to begin, it is important to make arrangements for things like parking. There will likely be several different vehicles at any given time throughout the project and those working will need a safe place to park. So, be sure to discuss this as well as your needs and parking requirements.
   
6. Another important thing is access to the home and space for materials and equipment that may be needed for those working on the job. You may need to allow room in the garage or driveway. Access, along with work schedule, is another important factor that affects the project requirements. You will want to know what hours they will be there, who needs access to the house, and how you will provide it.
   
7. Don’t forget the fact that the workers are going to need electricity and access to the electrical panel. If it is outside, it may have a lock on it. They will also need the water to be on especially for drywall, tile work, and painting projects. Talk with your contractor about those needs.
   
8. Something that is very often missed is the need for the use of a bathroom by the workers.
   
   Not everyone has the same idea here. Some just assume that the worker will use what is available, both customer and contractor. To avoid misunderstandings, have that discussion about renting an outside portable toilet or not. If the contractor needs to rent one, that decision needs to be known ahead of time and included in the contract because it is an expense to the job.
   
9. At the end of the job, you will need to look over the project to ensure that it has been completed satisfactorily. If there are things that need attention, you should let your contractor know about it. Making a list of those items and marking the location with some masking tape to show where the correction is needed, can be very helpful.
   
10. Finally, what about Clean-Up? Who does that?
    
    Is it your job or theirs? Ask this question early on. Most good contractors will do some clean up as they go. Perhaps a daily pick-up and sweep-up is sufficient. I would not assume a thorough cleaning by a cleaning service is going to happen unless the contractor has allowed for the expense and it is stated in your contract. Remodeling work is dusty and dirty work and you need to be prepared for that. Make arrangements for that earlier, or plan to do it yourself. Always replace the AC filter when the job is finished. Depending on the amount of dust created by the type of work being done, you may want to do that earlier and again at the end of the project.
    
    The main thing about successfully preparing for your remodeling or renovation project is the communication between you and your contractor. Whether it be contractual or conversational, it is important to make known the needs and requirements of both the customer and the contractor for a good remodeling experience and a job well done.