Having Contractors in Your Home
What to expect when you’re expecting
(Contractors in your home.)
You’ve found someone you like, established a work scope, and you’ve got a day scheduled for them to come to your home, so what’s next? The process of doing a project will be unique in each situation, but there are a few things that can help make it a smooth experience.
Keep in mind that every business operates differently, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect.
Sample contracts and articles
After scheduling an appointment your selected contractor may send you some reading material about your upcoming project. This could include anything from a sample contract, to deposit terms, to general information about your project. This will help you know what is expected of you and prepare yourself for the process. At the minimum, expect a sample contract, and if your prospective contractor does not provide one, ask for one so you can look it over carefully before they arrive. It may seem like simple stuff, and you’ve already talked about it all with your contractor right? Now is not the time for impatience, because if it isn’t spelled out in the contract, it isn’t part of the agreement you are making.
Deposit Terms: When is a deposit due? What percentage of the total is due before work begins? What methods of payment do they accept? If you’ll be expected to pay the deposit during the site visit, make sure you have an accepted form of payment ready.
Articles: Some contractors may send you a few articles to look over before your appointment. Be sure to read these. They are full of information about how the booking process works for that specific company, but it could also be more nuanced information about the product or service you are purchasing. These are helpful for understanding what kind of company you are thinking of hiring, how they operate, and what you need to know about the process.
Sample Contract: Be certain to hire a contractor with a contract. Contracts are in place to protect not only the company but you as well. A good contract will have guidelines about when the project will be finished, the total cost, warranty information, and the scope of the project. A sample contract will allow you to study the verbiage and see how everything is laid out. After you have the contract for your work, be sure to check the scope, price, and timeline and confirm they were what you agreed on.
General Stuff
Who’s coming? Make sure you know the names and faces of the folks who are showing up at your place. It’s okay to ask if that makes sense for you. For some projects, you may see the same crew every day for weeks or even months. Knowing who you will be sharing your home with will help you as well as your visitors feel comfortable. Having a good relationship with the crew can help the project run smoothly and influence how positive your overall experience is.
Is the work area clean and ready? An easy example would be an interior painter. Are your personal items clear of the room so the painter can do their work? Typically a contractor would not take responsibility for moving personal items and risk damaging anything. If they are left in the work area there is a risk of damage as well. Before your painter arrives, the area should be clear so they can focus on the task at hand.
Keep your pets in mind. We love pets of all kinds, but sometimes they can be distracting. Not everyone is comfortable around pets, so being thoughtful with intentional introductions can be helpful. Sometimes keeping them out of the work area is the best option.
Neighborhood rules. If there are any rules about your neighborhood a potential contractor might need to know (ex. Quiet hours, HOA rules, or where to park) letting them know beforehand could help quite a bit and be sure that not only are you happy, but your neighbors are too.
In closing
I know this might seem like quite a bit of information to take in before your appointment, but it will make sure you and your selected contractor are on the same page and will help the whole process go much more smoothly.
