Tips to Consider when Renovating
* Inspections: Too often homeowners leave all of the inspections up to the contractor. The permit is taken on your property and you have a responsibility to assure inspections are being done at the appropriate stages. Permits can be checked online at the City of London website. * Dust: Every renovation will generate dust. 100% containment is impossible. Change your furnace filter often. Make sure that the contractor covers everything that you want covered. Family heirlooms or prized possessions should be boxed and stored safely away* Rules: Set rules with your contractor before work begins regarding smoking outside or not at all, where you want breaks to occur, where workers should park & other logistical issues. One thing that will surely help during your renovation is to designate one bathroom for the workers and one for your family. * Timing: A good contractor will give to as much time as possible to make your decisions. This is especially important in a kitchen renovation where there are so many elements to be chosen. Build your own spreadsheet or get one from your contractor for all products and details that must be selected. Include price allowances and the date they need to be chosen by. This will keep the project moving quickly and you will have a reference for future use should any product require service.
* Be a good neighbour: Ask your contractor about solutions to noise, parking, garbage and other issues that may affect neighbours. Relay this information to your neighbours before the renovation starts and explain what they can expect and how you've tried to accommodate them. You'll need them on your side. * Keep your sense of humour during a renovation. Try to deal calmly with unexpected events and setbacks should they occur.
* Warranties: Make sure that your contractor has a written warranty. This needs to include what is covered and for how long. Also, make sure you have all of the warranty papers on any products included in your renovation. * Liability: Make sure the contractor you are dealing with has business liability insurance, Workers Compensation (WSIB) and a valid Business Number or GST number. If an accident occurs and the contractor does not have these items in place, then you could be on the hook.
* Communication is key: Prior to your renovation starting, set up a time each day to meet with the foreman in charge of your job. This way you know that you always have time to evaluate the project and handle any issues before they escalate * Permits: Be wary of renovators that want to put permits in your name - this makes it easy for them to walk away prematurely and leaves the total responsibility for the completion and passing of inspections on your shoulders. * Budget: Have a budget allowance for each of the fixtures and products used in your renovation. This way you are guaranteed a certain level of quality for all products and your contractor can give you a rebate on products that are under budget.
* Inspections: Remember that your building permit needs to be posted on site and dates of passed inspections marked at each milestone.
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