When planning a home remodel, it is vital to take the time to hire a general contractor who will manage the entire project. Choosing the right person will ensure that everything gets done according to plan, and the finished product looks great. Using word of mouth is a good way to find a reputable contractor, or you can do an Internet search for contractors in your area. Some work independently, while others are part of larger construction companies.
It’s important to choose a contractor with a good reputation and extensive experience in the type of work you need. Ask friends, family and neighbors for recommendations; then interview several candidates before making a decision. Check their references and licenses, and make sure they have liability insurance and workers’ compensation. Ask them to submit a portfolio of past projects; look for before and after pictures of rooms in the project, as well as blueprints or sketches of the planned work.
A general contractor will be able to negotiate better prices on materials and labor than you could on your own. They also know how to meet deadlines. They’ll be able to help you stay within your budget and make sure the job is up to code. Ultimately, they’ll save you money by getting the job done correctly the first time around.
Be wary of any contractor who is eager to start work immediately. A reputable contractor will want to draw up a contract that includes all details of the job and the payment schedule, including a provision for a lien release when the work is completed. The contract should also spell out “allowances,” or the amount of flexibility the contractor has in determining prices for products and supplies. This type of clause can bust a budget quickly, especially if the contractor wants to change your mind once work begins.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is to alter their plans once work begins, but changing the plan can cost you more than a few dollars in extra materials and labor. It may require the electrician to be called back in, or the painter, and that can eat up time and money. Changing the plan can also mean that your contractor has to order new materials or delay delivery, which can cost you even more money.
Contractors are typically juggling multiple jobs, and they must pay their subcontractors on a regular basis. A good contractor will have a slush fund to cover any unforeseen costs, and will be able to keep the work moving on schedule.
Being your own general contractor can save you a lot of money, but only if you are a true DIYer and you’re confident that you can handle the plumbing and electrical work yourself. Otherwise, leave it to the professionals who have been doing this for years and have a network of professional contacts that can speed up processes that stymie ordinary homeowners. It’s a big job, and it needs to be done right the first time to avoid costly mistakes.