Establish a project plan, covering all phases and dependencies in the work.
Plan your big picture goals with the remodeler and discuss your needs.
Establish effective two-way communication with the home remodeler.
It's essential to have good communication for a smooth home remodeling project.
Make sure you are compatible with the contractor.
You'll spend a lot of time with your remodeler so it's important to have a good rapport and trust in him or her.
Set a clear and mutual agreement about the schedule.
You and your home remodeler should agree on the schedule up front to avoid conflict and problems later in the project.
Request a written proposal.
Get a clear and mutual understanding on miscellaneous details up front.
There are a lot of little details that need to be settled before work starts.
Remember to be flexible. Remodeling is an interruption of your normal life, be flexible during the project so that you can handle the unexpected and go with the flow.
Discuss and agree on how change orders will be handled.
With home remodeling there is always the chance you may want to change materials or other project details during the job.
Agree on a well-written contract that covers all the bases.
Ask for a written lien waiver from the home remodeler upon completion of the work.
This document will verify everyone, including subcontractors, has been paid.
-- From
How to Hire Your Dream Remodeler
by Tom Higgins, Superior Products Home Improvement, Littleton, CO.