Under Contract

When dealing with contractors a phrase you might hear frequently is, "get everything in writing." For the average homeowner dealing with renovations or repairs for the first time, here are some things to consider.

The more extensive the changes, the more likely it is that some part of your property might be damaged during construction. Discuss these concerns up front with your contractor and clarify who will be financially responsible for any damage.

Most workers will be primarily concerned with getting their job done, not protecting your foundation plantings. Exterior damage often occurs due to: use of bleach or cleaning agents during pressure washing, increased foot and machinery traffic over grounds and hardscaping, debris or paint on plant life, plantings damaged or poorly pruned by workers attempting to reach a difficult location, and roots damaged through digging.

Interior damage commonly results from the following: spilled paint, scuff marks and dents on floors and walls, chips or cracks to countertops and sinks, stained skinks, stained carpets or floors, and/or use of inferior material (especially wall paint),

In our societal desire to have more for less, contractors and laborers are continually challenged to find the most cost effective ways to complete their projects. A certain degree of trust is essential, unless you know every detail of construction yourself.

Though we may assume that certain things are common sense and that no one would perpetrate these mistakes, prepare yourself, because it happens. I've seen wood recycled for trim work that should have been sanded down to remove old paint marks (but wasn't), homeowners who verbally requested premium paints (that didn't get it), putty used instead of caulk and caulk instead of putty (depending on what was already at hand), and disregard for all types of health and safety issues.

At one job site I saw workers cleaning their tools off in a toilet bowl because it was the only remaining source of running water. When I mentioned it to my husband, he didn't see the problem, but I bet that there are numerous others out there thinking the same as me; YUCK! Once I worked a brief project for a contractor who stated that he knew where to get lead based white paint and that he still used it on some of his projects. Needless to say, I never worked with him again.

Good contractors and interior designers can really make the difference in maintaining and improving upon the value of your home. That is why the lowest bid you receive might have hidden costs in the long run.

Make a list of expectations that are clear up front. Here are some suggestions:

1.Who pays for any potential property damage?

2.What is the time frame for the project and what hours will laborers need access to the space?

3.Where will sawing take place?

4.Where will extra material be stored?

5.Do you have any plant life or hardscaping that has special needs?

6.What protective measures will the contractor be using for the work areas and how will non-affected areas be kept clean?

7.Do you expect the job site to be kept clean on a daily basis?

8.Is there any work to be done that might affect your relationship with your neighbors?

9.Where and how will workers clean their equipment? (I have actually transported large buckets and water for my cleanup when indoor plumbing was not available.)

10. How much 'at home' do you want the workers to be? Can they use your fridge, toilet, radio, etc., if you are not at home?

Remember to take extensive photos of your property prior to the project so you'll have a visual reference. If you are not at the job site while work is happening, make it a point to stop by unexpected to see how business is conducted in your absence. Most of all remember that the people working on your home are human beings. Treat them kindly and with respect and chances are, they'll do the same for you and your home.