One of the most important aspects to a home renovation is finding a trustworthy, reliable contractor. Sometimes, even though you believed you had
hired a good contractor, as the renovation process moves forward, you start to question how ethical your contractor is. Whether he or she is showing up late, disregarding your opinions, or cutting corners, you are stuck in the middle of a home renovation with a contractor you invested a pile of money in.
In some cases, the relationship can be salvaged if you give the contractor the proper motivation. Here are five tips:
1. Research the Project
For any project your contractor is attempting, from something as large as removing a wall to something as small as installing your
Charter TV, take the time to study up on the process. Understanding the project can help you become an expert of sorts, helping you determine whether or not the project is being done properly. Additionally, to prove your knowledge, when speaking with the contractor about inconsistencies you’ve noticed, use the proper terminology. This way the contractor knows you are serious and qualified, motivating him to do the project correctly under your watchful eye.
2. Project Details in Writing
While even the best contractors cannot avoid certain project delays, having the project details in writing can help an unmotivated contractor get moving and stay on schedule. Also, it leaves nothing to chance. Having the details can alert you if your contractor begins asking for more money to pay for more materials than what the project requires, or begins making project changes that were not specified in the contract. In the case you couldn’t work out the
problem with your contractor, having signed project details can provide you evidence in case you need to go to the authorities.
3. Pictures
As often as possible, document the renovation with pictures. This is not only nice for posterity reasons, it is also a good way to keep track of everything that is happening on the job site from finished projects to trash the crew left behind.
In some cases, the contractor might be fine, but his crew is disappointing. Documenting the habits of his crew can motivate him into setting them straight, as their actions are a reflection on his business and his reputation.
4. Address Problems ASAP
If you notice issues with your house during or after the
renovation, address them immediately. If you wait too long, or hope the issue resolves itself, you could find yourself in a great deal of trouble later on. Share your concerns as soon as possible.
5. Communicate
The key to dealing well with a contractor is communication. Effectively communicating with a contractor can keep him or her on track, as they have more motivation to stay on task and finish the project. Additionally, if there are problems during the renovation, open communication can help solve the problem in a succinct manner instead of having to get the authorities involved.
These tips should help keep your contractor on track and determined to finish the project on time.