Working With Your Contractor
building a relationship with a contractor
will require having a complete understanding on what is expected. Double check your spec plan. Review it with the contractor. Make sure there aren't any surprises. It will save time and money.
Page Topics:
Start with Proper Planning
To ensure a successful home remodeling project, make sure you define your remodeling specification plan
specifications should include all supplies that will be used in the home remodeling project and what services will be rendered
link to the spec plan for information
Specifications should list the brand, make, model, number, style, type, color and any other descriptions;
plus is should list whether the materials used in project will be new or used
ensure that the specifications are exact in detail to protect you from inferior use of products and to compare "apples-to-apples" specs among contractors
be as detail as possible — see our Remodeling Specification Plan for discussion and design ideas
About Building Permits and Codes
Your home remodeling project may require a building permit from your local jurisdiction
it will either be up to you or the contractor to obtain each permit if required —
All about permits:
www.permitplace.com/
Lookup county and city governments for permit information:
www.statelocalgov.net
Also note that building codes specify how each project should be completed
Local inspectors will ensure that the construction meets code. It will be helpful to understand these codes when assembling your specs.
About building codes:
www.b4ubuild.com/links/codes.shtml
Building codes:
www.codecheck.com/
Lookup county and city governments for building code information:
www.statelocalgov.net
You might want to check with your Neighborhood Association on your remodeling plans.
Some Associations may impose design specifications on your construction. You may need to have a variance or approval from your homeowner's association.
Pay particular attention if your construction is situated in a historic section.
Historic preservation laws may restrict certain home remodeling projects.
Lookup county and city governments for information:
www.statelocalgov.net
more information about historic preservation:
www.nationaltrust.org
Managing the Project
- Change
Management:
managing changes to the original remodeling specification plan on design, upgrades and other
- Problem
Resolution:
managing problems as they arise and getting them resolved within budget
- Cost
Management:
managing the costs of the home remodeling including changes to the plan
- Construction
Inspection:
inspecting the work, building codes, and structure prior to finalizing payment
view our project management for a review of these construction management issues
