Dreaming of a more functional kitchen? An updated bathroom? Additional bedrooms? Make your home work better for your needs with a renovation project.
A qualified professional will help keep the project moving and allow you to continue day-to-day routines without big interruptions. You can rest assured that your project will meet current building codes and be completed properly. How do you choose the right remodeler? There are a few things we recommend:
- Ask for references. A reputable remodeler will be happy to share these.
- Thoroughly review contracts, making sure the agreements are standard.
- Work with someone you find easy to communicate with. You should feel comfortable asking questions and your remodeler should share information in a clear way.
Remodeling is specific to your home, but large projects can impact your neighbors, too. Your renovation allows you to stay in the same neighborhood for years to come, so make sure you’re communicating with neighbors to keep the peace. Start by discussing these things with your remodeler:
- Ask subcontractors to park on one side of the street only.
- Make sure noisy power tools are only used during standard business hours. Reasonable hours are 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
- Try your best to have materials dropped off in your driveway or yard rather than the street.
And, make sure you keep your neighbors updated:
- Let neighbors know well in advance about your remodeling plans.
- If the project is quite large, give them a brief overview of the project. Share when work will begin, approximate completion date, what work will be done, and whether their property might need to be used.
- Ask them if they mind if the remodelers park near or possibly on their property. Communicate these preferences to your remodelers.
- If delays come up, let neighbors know how much longer the crews will be working in your neighborhood.
- Remove dumpsters as quickly as possible.
- Keep your yard as normal-looking as possible. Watch for debris that might find its way onto your neighbors’ yards, especially if a roofing project is involved.
- Stay in constant contact with your neighbors. If something happens that disturbs them, offer an apology immediately.
- Inform them of any large trucks entering the neighborhood.
