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What should I be asking my contractor, before I renovate?
Home renovations – especially first-time renovations – are stressful, period.
In fact, according to the Holmes-Rahe Stress Inventory, remodeling your home is one of the most stressful life events, behind trouble with the in-laws.
So, why are remodeling projects so taxing? A lot has to do with communication – or lack thereof. Anne Reagan, Writer for Porch.com, says, “Very often homeowners don’t know what questions to ask upfront, and experience a steep learning curve during the remodeling process.”
Knowing this, we asked our Crew and Guildmembers what questions they believe all homeowners should be asking their contractors before starting a project. Here’s what Guildmember Abe Degnan from Degnan Design-Build-Remodel, had to say:
“First, how will they [the contractor/builder] integrate design, selections, and construction? Also, what is their track record for being able to design a project that meets a target construction budget, and actually complete the construction project? And finally, how can [the contractor] help to ensure that the project ends up on time, on budget, and is as beautiful as imagined?”
Another Guildmember gave the following advice:
“Before having anyone work in your home, verify that they are insured. Ask for a current copy of their insurance information. Once you have that, call their insurance agent and verify that the coverage is current. We have general liability, commercial auto, and worker’s comp.”
– Eric Goyanes, Fresh Coat Painters of Gainesville
To see other answers to this question, or to add your own answer, click here.
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