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Helpful Tips |
Are you staying in the house during major renovations? While involved renovation projects, such as converting a bungalow into a 2-story home, require that the premises be vacated, less complex projects allow you to continue living at the site throughout the project. Inconveniences and disruptions of daily routine are unavoidable, so they should be expected. How do you know if it's a 'Major Project'? Major projects often require the services of an architect or other professionals such as engineers, heating contractors, and landscaping contractors. Will I need permits? Blueprints and building plans are not only required to obtain building permits and other municipal approvals, they are also the basis for the renovation contractor's price quote. How long do most jobs take? It all depends on how much work there is, and whether it's a major renovation or just a smaller job. When making plans, be realistic about the amount of time it will take to complete the project. How do I know if the bid is realistic? Also be realistic about costs. If most of the bids are coming in at (relatively) the same cost, it's safe to say they are being realistic and fair. If one of the costs is far lower than the rest, you should be aware of hidden costs or other expenses, maybe not included in the bid. What's a contingency fund? Contingency funds are extra monies put aside for unknown, unexpected or additional problems or issues not known to you or the Tradesperson when the job is started. They could include things like plumbing, heating, electrical or structural problems or challenges that are uncovered during normal work and renovations. Full cost quotes plus an additional 10% to 20% contingency fund for changes and unexpected expenses should be planned on. Do I need to get special street permits for the Trades? No. Unless the project will last only a few weeks, it is wise to discuss your project with neighbors. They will appreciate advanced notice that noise, dirt and clutter will be unavoidable at times, daytime activity will be increased, and that vehicles belonging to the contractor and crew will be parked along the street until project completion. I have a designer helping me. Will they clash with the contractor? If you will require the services of both a contractor and a designer, get them together as a team as early in the project as possible, so each party can benefit from the other's experience and expertise. Not only will the project itself go more smoothly - but the end result will be the best possible. Should I include the designer's sketches in my job posting? Yes, most definitely. Have the designer or renovator provide you with sketches detailed enough to provide you with an idea of what to expect in the way of time involvement, what services from other professionals you might require, materials needed, and project expenses. You can detail these in your job posting. |
