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Frequently Asked Questions
| Question: How do I choose a remodeling contractor? |
Answer:
First of all, we don’t suggest thumbing through the phonebook. Instead, we would suggest obtaining a referral from someone who recently worked with a contractor and is pleased with the results of the project. Referrals are a very good place to start your search. Someone who has worked with the contractor, who knows first hand how reliable and trustworthy they have been, is the best source.
Also, there are many things to factor in when choosing a contractor. Are they reputable? How long have they been in business? Are they insured? Can they handle the type of project you need done? Are they accredited through professional remodeling organizations? You will want to request a list of references.
The most important thing is that when you are ready to make the final decision, be sure all the remodeling contractors you are considering are bidding on exactly the same thing. Otherwise, you will get very disparate quotes that will not reflect the actual price of the project. You will want clear and concise estimates on which to base your decision. And once you’ve made that decision, you can leave the rest up to us. |
| Question: How much will it cost? |
Answer:
First you have to define what the package is to include. Do you want top of the line appliances, travertine for the floor, faux painting in some of the finishes, body jet sprayers in the shower? A kitchen or bath can cost much more per square foot than any other room because of the items that go into them. The HVAC system might handle the added space or it might be at an age or so small that it would need to be replaced. So, you can see the range can be quite large. There is not a good way to give a cost estimate without defining the scope of work and setting budget constraints. After that is done a complete estimate can be worked up to provide an accurate cost. |
| Question: Are you licensed? |
Answer:
yes we are licensed for Residential and Light Commercial construction.
Our License numbers:
RLQA001285 and RLC0001373 |
| Question: Are you insured? |
Answer:
We have General Liability and Workers Compensation insurance. We will have our agent – Chastain & Associates Insurance - send a certificate of insurance to you upon signing of a contract. |
| Question: When remodeling a house, what architectural considerations are important? |
Answer:
Make changes that respect the architectural integrity of your house. The remodel should always match the period and character of the house. For instance, adding sliding glass doors to a 19th century house will make it hard to sell the house when the “old world” charm has been compromised. Also, you want the proportion of the addition to be appropriate to the existing structure. What you don’t want is to add something that will make the house unbalanced. |
| Question: Should I always take the lowest bid when hiring a remodeling contractor? |
Answer:
If you decide to do the bid process and take the lowest bid, can you be sure this is the best contractor for you? How many other projects similar to yours have been completed by the contractor? Have you checked references, seen their work, and checked their suppliers? Does the contractor communicate well? Is there a list of specifications that clearly spells out what will be done and how the contractor will accomplish the project? Does the contractor have insurance? Ask these questions so that you can find a contractor that is the best fit for you and your project. |
| Question: Can you start on my project immediately? |
Answer:
In most cases, we will have other projects that are on going or next in line so we cannot guarantee you that we can start your project immediately. (Emergency situations will always be handled differently.) But this is not a bad thing. A busy contractor is an indication that he is well respected. That means you are dealing with someone people seek out to complete their project even when the contractor is not the lowest bidder. we will do our best to give you a starting date and will keep you informed if changes happen. |
| Question: Should I hire an architect before I bid my project? |
Answer:
For big remodeling projects, this is an important part of the project and can save you money in the long run. The plans prepared by an architect will be utilized to guide the project and will ensure your contractor knows exactly what you expect when the project is completed. To get a sense of the completed project, laying out a full scale “model” of the project in the garage or driveway after the blue prints are received will help you to visualize the completed work so you can recommend changes before the project begins. Planning is never the exciting part of any project but a good plan will ensure a good experience. |
| Question: Can I make changes to the project after construction begins? |
Answer:
It is our goal to make sure our clients are completely satisfied. Therefore, we will accommodate changes to a project if the homeowner desires the change. However, changes can add to costs and in some cases, cause the removal of some of the new construction that has already been completed. So, take the time to talk over the project in detail with the architect and contractor and make big changes early in the planning phase of the project. |
| Question: When considering heating and cooling systems for my project, is bigger better? |
Answer:
I work with a qualified heating and cooling subcontractor to ensure the unit we install will serve your needs without straining your bank account. The key is to install the most cost-effective system that will allow you to be comfortable in your home all year long. |
| Question: Once I get a couple of estimates on what it will take to complete my project, can’t I just be my own general contractor? |
Answer:
To serve as your own contractor, you will need the time, the contacts, and the expert knowledge of building to ensure your project is being accomplished properly. Arranging subcontractors may be difficult since you cannot guarantee them repeat business. Hiring a professional contractor will be worth the cost in the long run. |
| Question: Can I save money by doing the demolition portion of the project myself? |
Answer:
This is always a consideration. However, my crew leader will check for wiring and water pipes in the area of demolition to prevent injury or damage to your property. Additionally, they will inspect the other side of a wall to ensure paintings and/or wall mounted household decorating items have been properly removed and stored prior to demolition. |
| Question: How can I be sure all my punch list items are completed? |
Answer:
Ideally, there would not be any punch list items to deal with but sometimes we have to address some items at the end of a project. At the time of the final billing, we do a walk through with you to make sure you are satisfied with the work we have completed. The punch list is made out at that time and 10% of the final payment is held until the list is completed. |
| Question: How are payments scheduled? |
Answer:
Depending on the project, the payment is split into phases. An initial payment is made when the job starts and subsequent payments at the start of each phase. These phases include but are not limited to mechanical rough in, drywall, trim, etc. |
| Question: Is a deposit required? |
Answer:
At this time we do not require a deposit to hold your place in our schedule. |
| Question: Do I have to move out during the remodeling project? |
Answer:
This question depends upon the extent of the remodeling project. If you stay, we must remind you that construction is a messy business. Our crews clean up at the end of each day but there may be materials and supplies that may be in your way while the project is in progress. So, you must be willing to live with the inconvenience. We will do our best to accommodate your needs but we must both be flexible as the project is on going. |
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