Steps For A Successful And Stress-Free Remodeling Project
Many people are choosing to stay in their existing homes instead of purchasing another home for reasons such as better school districts , property tax advantages and family proximity . Real Estate has traditionally been not only a shelter for your family , it can be a great investment as well . Remodeling or room additions can make your home more efficient and comfortable , and it is possible to recoup most or even all of the remodeling costs .
If planned and executed properly , the remodeling process can be a relatively smooth one . Unfortunately many people do more research when buying a television than they do when preparing to undertake a home remodeling project . The following are steps to help create a positive remodeling experience :
Put your ideas on paper , preferably actual architectural drawings .
These specifications will define the scope of work and be given to each qualified General Contractor that you have invited to bid . Drawings and detailed specifications will help eliminate the unknowns and decrease the potential for Change Orders . Change Orders are additional invoices that are issued to the homeowner when the unexpected occurs . For example , if there is plumbing in a wall that wasn ’ t referenced in the drawings and / or specifications .
Ask friends , family and neighbors if they have any personal , positive experiences with a General Contractor .
Use Yelp and Internet searches to read customer testimonials and company reviews . It is a good idea to get bids from three different Contractors . Ask for references and be diligent in following-up with a visual inspection on at least one prior job . While checking references , ask if the Contractor was reliable , had good communication skills , and whether or not the customer was charged excessive Change Orders .
Check that the Contractor ’ s license is current and active .
Call the CSLB ( 800.321 . CSLB ) or visiting their website , www . cslb . ca . gov . where you can also check the status of the company ’ s workers ’ compensation insurance . Additionally , go to www . epa . gov / lead / pubs / toolkits . htm to confirm that the company is EPA lead-safe certified . The EPA ’ s new Renovation , Repair and Painting Rule became a Federal law as of April 22 , 2010 , and reportedly few general contractors in California have received certification .
Schedule a final job walk at the completion of the project .
During this walk , the homeowner has the opportunity to identify , discuss and document any defects or incomplete work . This detailed list is often called a “ punch list .” It is a good idea to supplement this punch list by marking the actual areas of concern on the walls , ceilings , etc ., with blue painters tape . Number the blue tape and reference them on the punch list . Never pay the final retention fee until the project is complete . Never pay with cash .
Have a meeting before construction begins to discuss mutual expectations and concerns .
Schedule on-going meetings , preferably once a week or so . The meetings do not need to be lengthy ( a half-hour is often sufficient ) but are necessary to provide adequate communication throughout the duration of the project .
Get a written contract .
Avoid bids that are vague . Materials should be specified by brand and model number , if at all possible . Be sure that you completely understand the terms of the contract . When will the project commence and what is the projected completion date ? How will Change Orders be handled ? Never pay more 10 % or $ 1,000 ( whichever is less ) up front . If the contract calls for progressive payments , never pay more than the value of the work completed .
Using this list will help assure that the overall experience will be as pleasant as possible . You will then be able to enjoy the surroundings of your newly remodeled project !
By David Domenichini , owner and proprietor of D . R . Domenichini Construction , which was named Morgan Hill Business of the Year in 2012 . He brings nearly 20 years of experience to his family owned and operated business . David resides in the Morgan Hill area with his wife Gina . Both are active in the community . Visit their web site at
www . drdcon . com or call 408.691.3283 .
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