As a contractor and construction professional in Bristol, Maine,
Nathan Chesebro is no stranger to the home remodeling challenge. Having
worked with many clients throughout the state, he is able to offer a
number of helpful tips for homeowners who are looking to hire their own
remodeling contractor.
- Before signing on with a new contractor to handle a remodel, homeowners should make a point to visit a current job site belonging to the prospective contractor. This will give the homeowners a chance to look at how the contractor and his crew works. Items to look for during one of these visits is how clean and organized they maintain their work areas, what safety precautions they have put in place, and how much their work has affected the neighborhood as a whole.
- The contract that is drawn up between the homeowner and the contractor is very important. Even with a remodeling job that is not as intricate as a whole home build, there are many details that must be covered. These contracts protect both the homeowner and the contractor, ensuring that all parties involved are served properly and legally.
- Discussing expectations before starting a remodeling project is crucial to maintaining a good relationship with the contractor. Remodeling a home is an exciting time, but also a stressful one. If the homeowner expects to remain living in the home during the remodel, there are considerations that need to be addressed at the beginning. On the same note, few remodeling projects happen without a snag here or there. Understanding what is possible and realistic during a home remodel with ease tensions and allow for the right level of expectations.
- Work with the newly hired contractor to plan for how the entire home will be affected by the remodel. Even if there are no plans to remodel the rooms on the west side of the home, there is a good chance that foot traffic and workers will use those rooms at some point. Things to discuss with the contractor include their plans for protecting the homeowner's flooring and walls in these non-remodeled areas. Homeowners should remove any valuables or fragile items form the area as well.
- Always discus budgets and materials with a contractor before the work begins. A homeowner expects specific items to be used in their remodel, but may not always have a firm grasp on what those items cost. To avoid issues later on and potential disappointment, every homeowner needs to communicate with their contractor as thoroughly as possible. Establishing a budget that is realistic and setting specific goals to meet that budget will help make the entire process much easier. These are all things that Nathan Chesebro does for his clients.
