Remodeling your home is exciting when you think about how much more attractive and functional your home will be after it's completed.
Check out the tips from the National Association of Home Builders on how to spot an unprofessional remodeler. Professional remodelers want your remodel to go well and you to be happy with the results!
Have a Remodeling Plan
Taking the time to develop a complete, detailed plan of what you want will help both you and your remodeler to avoid major surprises along the way.
One of the reasons KB2 has been repeatedly honored by the remodeling industry is that it follows these principles to ensure the satisfaction of it's customers.
Choosing Your Remodeler
We would love to help you with your project but whether you choose KB2 Remodelers (Knutson Bros II, LLC) or another remodeler, here are 10 things we know will make the remodeling process smoother and less stressful.
- Good two-way communication is necessary to a smooth remodeling project. Does the remodeler listen? Does he or she answer questions clearly and candidly? Can you reach him when you need to? Does he return phone calls promptly? Does he let you know when problems arise and work with you on solving them?
- Compatibility and “fit” with the contractor. You’ll spend a lot of time with your remodeler so it’s important to have good rapport and trust.
- A clear and mutual understanding about the schedule. You and your remodeler should agree on the schedule before you sign the contract to avoid conflict and problems later in the project.
- A written proposal. Often, two people remember the same conversation differently. Get the proposal in writing and work with the remodeler to ensure it reflects your wishes.
- A clear and mutual understanding of the miscellaneous details. There are a lot of details that must be settled before work starts. What time of day will they be working? How will they access the property? How will cleanup be handled? How will they protect your property? What are your insurance obligations? What considerations are there for your pets?
- Remember to be flexible. Remodeling is an interruption of your normal life. Remember to be flexible during the project so that you can handle the unexpected. Don't be afraid to talk with your remodeler if something needs to be addressed.
- Agreement about how Change Orders will be handled. With remodeling there is always the chance you may want to change materials or other project details during the job. Agree with your remodeler on how these changes will be handled before the start of work. Also understand that changes could affect the schedule and the budget, so make sure all changes are in writing.
- A well-written, thorough contract should include:
- timetable for the project
- price and payment schedule
- detailed specifications for all products and materials
- insurance information
- permit information
- procedures for handling change orders
- lien releases
- provisions for conflict resolution
- notice of your right under the Federal Trade Commission’s Cooling Off Rule (your right to cancel the contract within three days if it was signed someplace other than the remodeler’s place of business)
- details on the important issues (such as access to your home, care of the home, cleanup and trash removal).
- A written Lien Waiver from the remodeler upon completion of the work. If the remodeler hires subcontractors for portions of the work it is their responsibility to see them compensated. In order to ensure this has been done and to protect yourself, ask for a written lien waiver when the work is finished. This document will verify everyone has been paid.
- A detailed project plan, covering all phases and dependencies in the work. Plan your big picture goals with the remodeler and talk out your needs. Hire a remodeler who will plan it out with you, listen to concerns, and answer questions.
BOTTOM LINE - GET AGREEMENT AND GET IT IN WRITING!
