Whether you’re making minor improvements or a full property remodeling, a contract makes sure all responsibilities are clear for both sides. It can also outline a process for dealing with unexpected expenses, such as the cost of permits or extra labor.
A good home remodeling contract should specify when the project will start and end. It should also include a schedule for important work phases.
Schedule of Work
Whether it’s a sketch on a napkin or full-blown architectural plans, you need to document exactly what will be completed and by when. This includes the laying out of the plan on the property and determining which parts of the job can be completed concurrently. It also details how long each step will take and provides a little wiggle room for weather delays, unexpected occurrences and more.
It is important to outline the schedule of work in a contract so the homeowner knows when to expect you to be there. This section should include the desired start date and a completion date (barring weather or major project changes). It’s also a good idea to put a system in place for alerting the homeowner about time adjustments so they can be addressed quickly. This reduces the likelihood of disputes about when progress was made. It also helps keep projects moving as they should.
Payment Schedule
A remodeling contract should clearly state how and when your contractor will be paid. This is one of the most common issues that arise on remodel projects, so it’s essential to set this up from the start.
Having clear payment terms will help to avoid future disputes. For example, if your remodeler claims that he has underestimated material payments and wants to draw progress payment money early, it’s important to stand firm on the contract. You should also keep back enough money in the final payment to cover any work that needs to be re-done by someone else.
On the other hand, a contractor might request that you make regular payments — such as weekly or biweekly — or reserve a percentage of the project’s total cost for the final survey and removal of equipment and supplies at the end of the job. This model benefits both parties since homeowners don’t have to come up with a lump sum at the end, and contractors can get money on an ongoing basis to buy materials and pay subcontractors.
Material Selections
During the design process, you’ll make choices about many different materials for your remodel project. These selections are a big part of your overall cost. The contractor will use a selection ranking system during the process, and you’ll be able to see how selecting “good” or even better options may lower your total costs.
Choosing the right construction materials or house components for your home remodel is often overwhelming and daunting. There are so many options out there, and you want to be sure the material you choose is durable and fits in with your style and functional objectives for your home.
That’s where a professional, personable designer or renovation contractor can help! Our team at TriFection takes the guesswork out of choosing your ideal custom cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, flooring, fixtures, appliances, paint colors and more. Our design and selections process is fun, educational, and productive! That’s the kind of home remodeling experience we strive to deliver for every client.
Warranty
A warranty is a homeowner’s safety net if something goes wrong after a project has finished. Many remodelers offer a warranty to give homeowners peace of mind and to help them market their services. A good warranty will provide protection for a set period after the job is completed and be transferable to a new owner if the home is sold.
Make sure the contract includes a description of materials and products, including brands, models and serial numbers; warranties provided by manufacturers or processors and the length of coverage. It should also list any items that are excluded from the warranty.
A good remodeling contract will also include a clause on the parties’ responsibilities in case a dispute arises. It should specify who will resolve the dispute and how long the process will take. Ideally, the contract should specify an arbitrator rather than a judge to avoid expensive legal battles that can slow down a job.