10 Things Your Remodeling Contractor Wants You to Know
Remodeling your home can be an exciting yet daunting task. It requires time, experience, and skills that most homeowners simply don’t possess. This is where a remodeling contractor comes in handy. These professionals are essential allies in your journey to enhance your living space, organizing your home remodel and ensuring its successful completion.
While remodeling contractors often receive complaints on online contractor referral sites, the truth is that the majority of them are honest, competent, and diplomatic individuals who want to provide you with the best service possible. To make the remodeling process smoother for both you and the contractor, here are ten important things they want you to know before signing the contract:
They Would Rather Not Work With Your People
You may have specific individuals in mind to handle certain aspects of the remodel, such as a cousin who is a plumber or an uncle who can tackle the electrical work. However, most contractors prefer to work with a team of subcontractors they know and trust. By using your own people, you may be compromising the quality of the work and potentially causing conflicts with the contractor’s established relationships. It’s best to trust the contractor’s judgment when it comes to selecting the right team for the job.
They Don’t Like Reusing Your Old Stuff
While you may have sentimental attachments to certain items in your home, such as vintage cabinets or wood flooring, reusing old materials can often lead to more complications and costs than expected. Old items may not meet modern building codes and could fail inspection, resulting in additional expenses and delays. Trust your contractor’s expertise when it comes to determining what can and cannot be reused in your remodel.
They Have a Greater Allegiance to Their People Than You
While your satisfaction as a client is essential to the contractor, their long-standing relationships with their team of tradespeople are equally important. Contractors value positive word-of-mouth and strive to maintain good working relationships with their subcontractors. Trust that the contractor has carefully selected their team based on experience, reliability, and professionalism.
They’re Not Trying to Make Extra Work
It’s a common misconception that contractors purposely underbid projects to add extra tasks later on through change orders. While change orders are a normal part of the remodeling process due to unexpected challenges, contractors prefer to have all work itemized upfront to avoid surprises and disruptions. Trust that your contractor is committed to delivering quality work within the agreed-upon scope and budget.
They Can Help With Permits but Cannot Work Magic
When it comes to permits, contractors can assist you in navigating the process and ensuring that your project complies with local regulations. However, they cannot bend the rules or guarantee approval for non-compliant requests. Trust that your contractor’s good relationship with permit offices is built on honesty and integrity, and avoid asking them to push boundaries that could jeopardize their reputation.
They Want You to Shop for Contractors
Contrary to popular belief, contractors appreciate clients who have done their research and are confident in their selection. Shopping around for contractors allows you to find the best fit for your project and ensures a successful collaboration from the start. Trust your instincts and choose a contractor who aligns with your vision and needs.
The Markup Fee Is Not Negotiable
While contractor fees may seem high, the markup fee is non-negotiable as it covers the contractor’s business expenses and overhead costs. Trust that the contractor’s years of experience and expertise can help you identify other areas where costs can be minimized without compromising quality. Understand that the markup fee is a standard practice in the industry and necessary for the contractor to deliver exceptional results.
They Like Perfectionist Clients More Than Legal Opponents
Clear communication and attention to detail are key to a successful remodel. Contractors value clients who provide precise information and feedback throughout the project, as it helps them deliver the desired outcome efficiently. Trust that addressing concerns and making requests during the project will result in a better final product, rather than allowing issues to escalate into disputes.
They Want You out of the House
While it’s understandable that you may want to oversee the remodel process, it’s best for everyone if you stay out of the contractor’s way during significant projects. Trust that the contractor’s priority is safety and efficiency, and that minimizing disruptions and distractions will help the project run smoothly. Consider finding temporary accommodations or limiting your presence to designated areas to ensure a productive work environment.
They Want to Do Business
Above all, remodeling contractors want to do business and build lasting relationships with satisfied clients. Trust that the contractor’s goal is to provide you with top-notch service and exceptional results that exceed your expectations. By working together collaboratively and respectfully, you can achieve a successful remodel that enhances your home and improves your quality of life.
In conclusion, partnering with a remodeling contractor can make your home improvement journey a rewarding and stress-free experience. By understanding and respecting the contractor’s expertise, communication preferences, and business practices, you can ensure a successful collaboration that transforms your vision into reality. Trust in the contractor’s professionalism and commitment to excellence, and together, you can create the home of your dreams.
