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Published January 2003 Questions to ask when choosing a contractor By
Gary Hartz The major cause of remodel delays and budget overages today is communication. I have been in the kitchen design business for more than 20 years, hearing the horror stories about the remodel project gone bad or never completed. Typically, a portion of the problem comes from clients not knowing what to expect on their project as well as the contractor not taking the time to explain it. So, is selecting the correct contractor easy? No, but knowing what to ask during the interview will reduce the likelihood of enduring a very negative remodeling experience. No. 1 — References
No. 2 — Contractor’s
present project Here, you will find out what to expect. The clients should be asked to rate the contractor’s performance on progress and work ethic. You should be able to visit a current job site, as well, to investigate the work being done in progress. No. 3 — Personal
work This information may vary with the size of the project. Keep in mind that if the contractor is doing a large addition, he or she will need help. Who will that be? Are they qualified subcontractors? No. 4 — Subcontractors
No. 5 — Project
length The contractor should, from experience, be able to give you a good idea of how long it should take. Be sure to let the contractor know about any time-sensitive issues you have that may affect the work schedule, as well as the overall end-date goal. No. 6 — Specifications
(the devil is in the details) A perfect example is your idea of a new back door being a solid-wood, all-insulated glass door with 15 real divided lights to be stained to match the existing moldings of your home. The contractor may have priced in a solid steel fire door. Specifications solidify the project for both of you and avoid misunderstandings and costly delays. Typically, time is money in the remodeling world, as most contracts are sold on a time and materials basis. The more organized you are at the start of the project, the less time (and money) your contractor and installers will have to spend in the end. Your contractor should have adequate systems in place to produce your job efficiently and, generally, within the estimated time frame. Communications, both written and verbal, are critical to a successful remodel. Gary Hartz is the senior designer at Emerald Design Inc., a design and remodeling business in Everett. He has more than 20 years of design experience, having trained under Chabert Duval in Cherlan Cersan, France, and New York. He also teaches design and remodeling classes through the Everett Parks and Recreation Department. He can be reached by calling 425-258-2600 or sending e-mail to gary@greatremodels.com. |
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© The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA |
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