Tips for a Smooth Renovation
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TIPS FOR A SMOOTH RENOVATION
Living with Renovation…Comfortably
(Source
Canadian Homebuilder’s Association)
You’ve
probably heard stories about renovation nightmares. Here’s some helpful tips
for a smooth, successful and stress-free renovation outcome.
Once
your project gets underway, you and your renovator need to work closely
together to make sure that everything goes as efficiently as possible.
The
renovator needs a good working environment so the job can progress without
problems or delays. You want as few inconveniences and disruptions to your
daily routine as possible.
Many
of the responsibilities of both the renovator and the homeowner have already
been spelled out in the contract. Before the work starts, sit down with your
renovator and discuss everyone's expectations and responsibilities in detail.
Good communication is key to a good renovation experience and a satisfying
result.
Before the Work Begins
Renovator Requirements
Discuss
the renovator's requirements for the work including access to electricity and
water on a regular basis, delivery and storage of building materials, and
disposal of wastes.
House Rules
Determine
the rules of the house for the work crew. Clarify access to bathroom facilities
and eating areas, as well as kitchen privileges, if any, and also which parts
of the house are off limits. Set out your smoking policy and if you permit
music in the work area.
Permits
Verify
that municipal permits and approvals have been obtained as needed. The contract
may stipulate that your renovator will do this; however, the ultimate
responsibility rests with you, the homeowner.
Renovator Responsibilities
Your
professional renovator will make every effort to avoid disruptions and minimize
the impact on your household. For instance, additions will be built and
partially finished before the connecting wall is removed. Temporary hook-ups
for water and electricity will allow you to continue your daily cooking and
cleaning routines.
To
keep you informed, your renovator will name a contact person for your project,
usually the site supervisor or the renovator personally, who will stay in touch
with you throughout the project. You will get regular updates on the progress
of the work and be told when to expect trades people and when you will be
needed for decisions. This person will also be available on short notice to
respond to any questions or concerns that you have.
Meeting Deadlines
The
renovator is responsible for meeting deadlines. The contract should clearly
outline the project schedule and deadlines to which your renovator will work.
If the work gets off-track for unforeseen reasons, the renovator will discuss
the situation with you immediately and find ways to correct it.
Daily
clean-up is part of the service. Professional renovators leave a clean work
site at the end of each day. Be sure to discuss your expectations.
Homeowner Responsibilities
Personal Belongings
Clear
work areas of furniture, drapes and art. Protect your valuables by placing them
in an area where no work is going on, or out of the home, and cover anything
that might be harmed by dust.
Make early product selections.
The
contract may stipulate that you select (and/or provide) specific items such as
flooring, lighting equipment, tiles and kitchen cabinets. Have these items
available to your renovator when needed to ensure the smooth progress of the
work.
Keep changes to a minimum.
Most
renovators are willing to accommodate changes to the original plan as you go
along. However, changes may result in a cost increase or a time delay so make
sure to discuss the implications with your renovator. Change orders are
amendments to the contract and must be signed by both parties.
Be available to your renovator.
Invariably,
you will be asked to make a number of smaller decisions as the work progresses.
Make sure that your renovator can reach you on short notice.
Discuss your concerns as they arise.
Bring
any concerns and questions to your renovator's attention immediately; don't
wait for "the right moment".
Provide
payment as agreed upon in the payment schedule set up in the contract. Be sure
to hold back the appropriate amounts required by the Contractors' Lien Act in
your province; contact your provincial government or your lawyer for
information.
Accept
the unpredictable. Foul weather, unavailable products, unforeseen complications
. . . these can be part of the renovation experience and will be dealt with by your
renovator in a professional manner.
For more
information on best practices to help you plan your renovation project, visit: http://www.homeforcebc.ca/
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