So … you found a contractor!
Their credentials check out, their references gave glowing reviews, their licenses and insurance are up to date … time to get that project rolling!
Hold up: Before the saws start spinning, there are a few things you may want to hammer out with your pro.
(Also, if you haven’t found a contractor yet and could use some tips, we explain how to hire a general contractor. 🛠)
The work contract drawn up should cover most of issues included below, but it’s still helpful to have a chat with your contractor after you review all the paperwork. If these details aren’t included, consider getting them in writing.
The bottom line is this: Good communication makes good working relationships.
Here’s a quick roundup of things to go over with your contractor so you’re on the same page:
1. The project
Clarify exactly what the project entails. Contractors often provide a “scope of work,” which is a written document describing exactly what work the contractor will do.
When it comes to the scope of work, the more details, the better. For example, “finish living room walls” leaves a lot of room for interpretation. Does “finish” mean put up dry wall? Or does it mean drywall, mud, tape, and paint? If you have questions about exactly what something means, ask right away and feel free to get the answers in writing.
Meanwhile, talk to your contractor about how changes will be handled, since it’s common for things to come up during a project. Even if a change doesn’t have associated costs, a “change order” can help track progress and make sure everything is documented (more on change orders in “The cost and payment” section).
2. The timeline
Your contractor should include a project timeline with your contract. This is especially important for larger, more complex projects. The timeline isn’t simply a deadline at the end of the project, it offers a series of dates when particular portions of the project will be complete. Often, it’s represented visually in a graph.
Plan for the project timeline to change. This is totally normal. Weather, material availability, sub-contractor schedules, and delays in permits can all delay a project. The more complex the project, the more potential delays.
Before beginning the work, ask your contractor about how they handle delays. Will they update the timeline? How will they will keep you in the loop? As the project goes on, feel free to ask why something is taking longer than expected.
That said, be patient with your contractor. They want to finish the job just as badly as you do!
By the way … if you’re nervous about having pros come into your home, we have tips to safely hire a contractor during COVID-19.
3. The costs and payment
Contractors use a variety of contracts. Time and materials, lump sum, cost-plus, and unit price contracts are all common. Each one uses different criteria to determine the final figure.
Be sure to understand how your contractor determined the cost for your specific project and be clear about your budget and ask how costs may change. Pause if you’re confused or aren’t comfortable with something.
Another good idea is to ask your contractor how they handle change orders. A change order is a document that tracks changes made to the original project in terms of work completed and the associated costs. Talking through the change order process can help you understand the process and give you flexibility to make adjustments if you choose.
Additionally, make note of your payment deadlines and ask your contractor how they prefer to be paid. Before making payments, refer to the project timeline to make sure your contractor is pulling their end of the bargain.
