Before your contractor begins working on your next project, there are a ton of things that you should be thinking over in your head and discussing with them. In the guide below, Alair Homes Phoenix will be going over the top 10 topics you should be discussing with your contractor before their start date to avoid any mistakes and interruptions.
1. Working Hours/Days
Even though most construction companies have the usual work hours that are preset in their schedule, it’s important to let them know when you will and won’t be home. If they plan to do extra work on the weekend, they should be letting you know their full schedule of when they plan to do work on your property.
2. Parking and Trash Day
When your contractors begin working on your project, make sure that you discuss both available parking and trash days. Some people may feel protective of their parking spots and the last thing you want is a feud with your neighbor. Additionally, you should also let your contractor know when your trash day is so they aren’t blocking the road for the trash pick up.
3. Access to Your Property
Before the project starts, your contractor should have some sort of access to your home if the work they are doing resides in your residence. Some security companies allow temporary codes if your home is equipped with a security alarm.
In addition, if your property is gated, make sure that the workers have the right key to gain access. The last thing you want is construction delayed due to them not being able to get into your property.
4. Contact Information
Ask for a list of the email addresses and phone numbers of every employee working in your home. Give them your information as well. Discuss how project details will be communicated with you, whether it be through email, phone, or in person.
5. See if Landscape and Site Protection Is Listed in the Contract
This is a super helpful topic to discuss during your walkthrough. Determine where the site protection will be placed so you can inform every member of your household. This includes temporary walls, tarps, and other protective measures. This discussion can also help you to figure out how much stuff you need to move out of the area.
6. Your Neighbors
Though you should let your neighbors know that you intend to have work done, you should also tell your contractor about any sensitive neighbors. This way, they can try to proceed lightly and gently.
7. Utilities
Show them the location of all your utility control panels, especially your water, gas, and electrical controls. Sometimes they are not easy to locate. You should also show them the controls of any major appliances and your circuit breaker, just in case they need to turn off anything else.
8. Pets and Other Workers
Be sure to let your contractors know if and when you have other workers coming to your house. This can include landscapers, cleaners, babysitters, and others. You should also think about your pets, too. Tell your workers about your pets and where they will be confined to during the work.
9. Schedule Regular Meetings
Though the first meeting is vital, meetings during the construction process are just as important. Determine a time when you can meet regularly each week or every other week. This way, you can see how the project is progressing and ask any additional questions you may have.
10. Other Questions
If you have any other questions for your contractors, be sure to bring those up as well. This could be about anything from scheduling to billing to any other detail. Contact Alair Homes Phoenix if you have any questions about your next custom home or renovation project.