REMODELING TIPS
It is a well-known fact that having a stranger in your home, no matter how pleasant or talented, can cause stress.
Add that to the fact that this particular stranger will be swinging a hammer and making noise - not to mention the sawdust and other dirt - and it is easy to understand why some homeowners consider remodeling to be stressful.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry likes to think of it as creativity in process. Yes, it may be an otherwise normal household environment, but the results are definitely worth the inconvenience in the end.
Working relationships take time and trust. Be open and honest form the beginning. Discuss problems or irritations as they occur so you and your contractor can devise alternative solutions. And remember to be patient. Keep your mind on the end result. By the time you cook the first meal in your kitchen or soak for the first time in your new whirlpool bath, you will have forgotten about the noise, dust and other distractions.
Here are some other tips to keep in mind. Each heading is a link to that section.
Proper Planning is Important
Think your project through from start to finish. Your home represents a large investment. Its proper care and maintenance are essential. Your home must suit your present needs as well as your lifestyle.
Careful planning of your home improvement projects will enable you to update your home, increase the value of your investment and customize your living space - all for a lot less than the cost of a new home.
Look over your property carefully. What repairs are needed? What improvements would you like to make?
Think ahead and determine your future needs. Do you need an additional bedroom, an updated bathroom or a modern kitchen? Professional remodeling contractors can help you by outlining options and discussing the improvements you can make within your budget.
Review your homeowner's insurance policy and make adjustments for the added value of the work being done.
Design and Function
Design and function should be foremost in your mind if you are thinking of adding a room or converting an existing room. When planning a larger, more complicated project, give thought to details such as: where you want electrical outlets, telephone jacks and cable hookups located; the type of lighting required; your current and future storage needs and whether you want to include luxury items. These details will enable your home improvement to better suit your needs and your lifestyle.
Financing Your Remodeling Project
You may wish to obtain financing for your remodeling project. There are various financing plans available to homeowners. Among the most popular is the equity line of credit which bases the loan amount on the equity in your home. A professional remodeling contractor is familiar with financing options available or can direct you to a knowledgeable source.
Choosing a Course of Action
Depending on your needs and the size and complexity of your intended remodeling project, there are several different options for you to explore before finalizing your plans. Attempt to define which of the following alternatives represents the best approach for your project.
The Architect
Major remodeling projects require construction drawings to define contracts and permit procurement. If your professional remodeler does not provide design services, you can use a professionally trained architect. It is best to work with an architect experienced in remodeling - he or she will be more sensitive to the special challenges that remodeling represents.
The General Contractor
Many home improvement projects may not require professional design services and can best be handled by an experienced contractor. Again, be sure to deal with a professional. Even small jobs need careful planning as their successful completion is important to you.
The Design/Build Contractor
Design/build is a concept developed by providing both quality design and construction services within the same company. A design/build contractor will be able to see your project through from start to finish, keeping design, engineering and budget in mind.
Select a Professional, Reliable Remodeling Contractor
Finding a qualified, professional remodeling contractor does not have to be a difficult or unpleasant task. By following these basic guidelines, you will make the selection process easier and be better prepared to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Employ a contractor with an established business in your area. Local firms can be checked through references from past customers in your community. They are tax-paying members of your community and are compelled to perform satisfactory work for local homeowners in order for their businesses to survive.
Look for a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). The NARI logo is the mark of a professional.
Check the remodeling contractor with the Better Business Bureau to ensure there is no adverse file on record.
Ask to see a copy of the contractor's certificate of insurance to verify coverage. Most states require a contractor carry worker's compensation, property damage and personal liability insurance. Make sure the contractor's insurance coverage meets all state minimum requirements.
If you solicit bids from several different contractors, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that is substantially lower than the others.
Ask for local homeowner references and follow up on them. Call the references; ask if they were satisfied with all aspects of the contractor's performance. Ask to see the finished project if possible.
Be sure to put all changes in writing if the scope or the complexity of your project is modified while work is being done. The amendment should be agreed upon by both parties.
Working with Professionals
Before work begins, ask your contractor what inconveniences may occur and plan for them. Be sure your contractor is aware of vacations or special events so that he or she may plan accordingly.
A Well Written Contract is Essential
Be sure the contract includes the contractor's name, address, phone and license number (if applicable).
Detail what the contractor will and will not do. Your contractor should detail a list of all materials for the project in your contract. This includes size, color, model, brand name and product.
The contract should include the approximate start date and substantial completion dates.
Study all required plans carefully. Insist that you approve them and that they are identified in your written contract before work begins.
Make sure that financial terms are understood and spelled out in the contract. The total price, payment schedule and any cancellation penalty should be clear.
A warranty covering materials and workmanship for a minimum of one year should be written into the contract.
Thoroughly review the entire contract and be certain you understand it before signing it. Consider the scope of the project and make sure all items you've requested are included. If you do not see a specific item in the contract, assume it is not included. Never sign an incomplete contract. Always keep a copy of the final document for your records.
Comply with Local Codes and Permits
Building codes are established by most cities, towns and counties and vary considerably from one jurisdiction to another. A building permit generally is required whenever structural work is involved or when the basic living area of a home is to be changed. Do not obtain your own building permit. In most jurisdictions, the individual obtaining the permits is considered to be the contractor and is, therefore, liable if the work does not comply with the local building codes.
Code of Ethics
Each member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry pledges to observe high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of business:
By promoting only those products and services which are functionally and economically sound and which are consistent with objective standards of health and safety.
By honoring all contractual obligations until and unless they are altered or dissolved by the mutual consent of all contractual parties concerned and by fulfilling those obligations in a reasonable prompt manner that is fair to all parties concerned.
By promptly acknowledging and acting on all complaints, and in situations where complaints appear unreasonable and persistent, by encouraging the customer to initiate an approved third-party dispute settlement mechanism.
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