Remodeling projects can be a real challenge for homeowners. Since even small projects can be a significant monetary investment, it’s important to choose the right contractor at the right price. There are several steps homeowners can take before choosing a contractor that will save them potential headaches caused by remodeling mishaps. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide that ensures homeowners choose the right contractor for their remodeling project.
The first step homeowners should take is to shop around. Get recommendations from friends, family, or online resources to determine which companies are the most reputable and trustworthy. Check Yelp and Angie’s List to check customer satisfaction with different contractors. Before you approach contractors to discuss your remodel, make sure you have drawings or specifications that illustrate the work you want done. It is difficult for contractors to create an accurate estimate based on vague ideas.
Before you make your decision, get at least three written estimates from different contractors. Make sure each contractor does a thorough assessment of the work that needs to be done. Don’t necessarily go for the lowest offer; you want the best job, not necessarily the best price. Be sure to have a written contract that specifies materials, warranties, hours, subcontractors, and other important information. It is very important to make sure that the contractor and subcontractors are licensed and insured. The last thing you want is to be sued for workers’ compensation after an uninsured worker is injured on the job. Check with your insurance company to make sure you are covered for any injury or damage that may occur.
Was your house built before 1978? Many houses built before this time used lead-based paint. Lead is a neurotoxin that, when disturbed, can cause serious health complications, especially in children under the age of six and pregnant women. Learn about the Environmental Protection Agency’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule. Make sure your contractor is RRP certified and take the necessary steps to comply with the EPA’s lead containment law. Compliance means taking serious precautions to prevent the spread of hazardous lead paint dust generated by demolition and other renovation activities. The contractor must provide you with a brochure that explains the harmful effects of lead paint and take steps to seal the work area, provide personal protection for workers, and thoroughly clean all surfaces that have come in contact with lead dust. Ask your contractor about their strategy for addressing the RRP rule before the project begins.
Make sure your contractor uses surface protection and dust control throughout the remodeling process. Protective coatings for valuable fixtures such as floors, granite countertops, high-end cabinets, doors, etc. prevent damage and help ensure your project is completed on time and on budget. A contractor who takes the time to protect your home’s fixtures shows that he cares about his customers’ satisfaction. Dust generated from breaking down walls, ripping out floors and cabinets, and other demolition activities can spread throughout the home if the work area is not well defined. Make sure your contractor requires workers to wear shoe covers, use sticky mats at doorways, and put up ZipWall dust barriers to contain dust kicked up by remodeling activities. This will ensure that the rest of your home does not get covered in dust and dirt while your remodeling project takes place.
By following these simple steps, your remodeling project should be hassle-free. As long as you’re upfront with your general contractor about project timelines, expectations, and surface protection requirements, your remodeling project should run smoothly and be a source of pride for both homeowner and contractor. For more information on the RRP rule or surface protection recommendations, visit www.buildsitepro.com.
