With more people trying to remodel their homes, many contractors are offering discounts to homeowners. However, that discount could end up being the worst mistake of your life if the remodel goes wrong. Take the following steps to prevent a bad remodel job:
Research Before Starting The Project
Doing some research before the remodelling begins lowers the chances of getting some shoddy work done. When looking for contractors, you might need to interview tens of them before settling on the right one. Once you narrow down your list of potential contractors, you need to ask them all the hard questions.
Before shaking hands and concluding the deal, look into their background. Also, check out the references provided by the contractor and look for online reviews. Another way to prevent disaster is by making sure that you specify your expectations to a contractor.
Oftentimes, homeowners are dissatisfied when the finished project fails to meet their expectations. To help you understand what the end result is going to look like, your contractor should provide computer-generated images. Moreover, making changes to a digital model is easier than changing an actual construction.
Document Everything
Once you find the right contractor, you need to work together to come up with a timeline for the remodelling project. Document whether the contractor shows up to work as agreed. If not, is the contractor letting you know that he or she will not be coming to work?
If you leave a message for the contractor, note down how long you waited for a reply. If your contractor is not responsive, it is a red flag. Ensure that he or she is making use of the products you paid for instead of cutting corners.
You need to review the prices of products before sending your contractor out to buy them if you want to avoid being swindled. Check for cost overruns to avoid needlessly spending too much money.
Raise Concerns Immediately
According to the owner of Plumbing Fix, complain if the plumbing is not being done to your liking. When writing a complaint, go back to your notes and state the reasons why you are dissatisfied with the work. The problem might be beyond the contractor’s control – for instance if your house has structural damage that needs to be addressed before the project continues.
In this case, you need to take responsibility for the problem. However, you need to address an issue quickly if it gets in the way of regular work. Whatever slow your project down will end up costing you money. Give the contractor a 24-48 hour window to respond to your complaint and make it clear you want the problem resolved.
Take Legal Action If Necessary
The site https://www.restorationelite.com/ suggests taking legal action if the restorers/contractors do not perform their duties as discussed. You need to review your contract to determine how you will proceed. Most contracts state you should try mediation first before pursuing legal action.
You will have to make a formal demand for mediation with your contractor. During the process of mediation, your mediator will try to convince you to settle the claim. If you can resolve the issue during mediation, there will be no need to file a lawsuit. However, if the issue remains unresolved after mediation, the next action can be either arbitration or filing of a lawsuit.
Whatever you do, ensure you hire a good lawyer to represent you if you end up going to court.
