Finding a contractor can be a challenge. But working with the one you think is right for you is another thing. While you and your remodelling contractor seem to be meant for each other, that does not mean that you will leave everything to them. During the construction period, you will also need to be more proactive. Losing focus may make you lose money in the long run.
If you want to make the most of your contractor’s services, you need to be always informed. You need to participate in the decision-making process actively. After all, it’s your home. From the construction set-up to finishing the job, here are some of the things you need to keep in mind:
Start with great communication
Every great work and collaboration starts with good communication. When you communicate your needs, and you are specific about them, your contractor will find it much easier to relay the instructions to the working teams. Other than this, you and the contractor should decide on the mode of communication that you’ll both use. You can be on-site to talk with the contractor before everything begins, or you may want to have them send you pictures of the work in progress.
Write down everything
When tracking the progress of your remodelling project, it would be wise to use a journal approach. That means you will write down and record everything. It is where you will keep track of the upcoming delivery dates of your materials, the questions you want to ask your contractor, and sudden creative ideas that may help improve the process. While you are at it, write down the agreements you and your contractor had; that way, dealing with disputes will be much easier. In case there are some changes that you and your contractor decide to make on the spot, make sure that these are written down.
Check the site regularly
You should visit the site regularly. Many experienced homeowners and even contractors advise checking the work after the crew works for the day. While checking the site, you may want to take pictures and take notes. After each day, you may need to do the accounting yourself by comparing the number of orders that have arrived that day against the invoices and receipts from the contractor.
Be extra
While the relationship that you have with your contractor and crew members is transactional, that does not always mean that you will give them a boss-worker treatment. Be nice and show them that you appreciate the work (only if the work is excellent!). You may want to bring some snacks or know the crew members by their name for a more personal approach to work. Your little gestures will always matter.
Work smart!
When it comes to construction matters, you need to make sure that you are working proactively. That way, you can easily ensure that you will get the best out of your contractor’s services. It also helps that you and your contractor have specific and detailed agreements to avoid disputes and misunderstandings.