construction

6 Things to discuss with your Contractor Before you start your Construction Project

Without proper planning, your home renovation or new construction will be a stressful and frustrating experience. Whether your business is growing and running out of space, or you’re building a home addition, you want to be closely involved in every aspect of your project. Knowing what to expect from your contractor before the work begins will help you better prepare for everything ahead. Keep in mind that you’re making a huge financial and emotional investment, and there’s no room for mistakes. Here’s what you should discuss with your contractor before starting that new construction project. 

What are your Working Hours and Days?

Most construction companies and general contractors have standard work hours. It’s important that you find out what time the contractor or subcontractors will be working in your home every day. Of course, this will depend on whether your home is occupied or vacant. You want to have realistic expectations so you can plan yourself accordingly. 

What is our Schedule?

Your construction project or home renovation is supposed to have a start and end date. You can’t have your contractor working on your project for years. There should be a schedule outlining the different tasks, timing, and deadlines. Otherwise, how will you know if things are slipping? Don’t start your project without a clear schedule. The schedule should include the specific days and times subcontractors will be on-site. 

Communication and Contacts 

Communication is very important. You should agree with your contractor on how you’ll be receiving progress reports and information about your project. Make sure you agree to a mode of communication both of you are comfortable with. You may want to consider having weekly meetings on a specific day and time so you can see your contractor and discuss things in person. 

Site and Landscape Protection

If you’re renovating your home, some demolition work may need to be done. A pre-construction meeting on-site is necessary, therefore. You don’t want to walk back to a home with dust all over the place. In larger construction projects, it’s best to remove all fragile items and valuables on walls and keep them in a safe area. Your contractor should give a clear idea on how they plan to cordon off the construction area from the rest of your home or property. 

Household Workers and Pets

Let your contractor know when your gardeners, cleaners, and other household workers are schedule to be onsite. It’s not your contractor’s responsibility to care for and keep track of your pet. Note that there’s work in progress and the noise from the construction can be stressful to your little friends, so you want to keep them away. 

Neighbors

You don’t want to be insensitive of other people’s homes. The noise from the construction site is likely to impact your neighbors, which is why you should let them know about your project ahead of time. Your contractor should also try to tread lightly if possible, but you have to alert them first. 

It’s important that you ask your contractor any lingering questions your may have before the project starts. Don’t hold back. Your contractor should be willing to respond to all your concerns and make sure you’re at peace.