So you've decided it's finally time to start working on that home addition - congratulations! Because there are so many different types of additions, they are an excellent way to personalize your home and create the extra space you require. The decision to build is the first step, but many homeowners are hesitant. You want an addition, but you've heard horror stories about contractors who start work, ignore the project timeline and budget, and then abandon the project halfway through.
You want a lovely, functional new space in your home, not a headache that will cost a fortune and never be finished! So, how can you avoid delays and disruptions in your home addition? Keep reading the blog by the top home renovation contractors.
How To Avoid Home Renovation Delays And Disruptions
1. Select the right contractor
Who is the most qualified contractor? When it comes to hiring a general contractor for your project, there are numerous factors to consider. Do they have prior experience with the type of work you require? You should not, for example, hire a roofing contractor if you are building an addition. Are they reliable? Look for reviews online and ask the contractors if they are willing to provide references. Are they capable? Is the work you're doing require the services of a licensed professional? Doing your research early on will help you find a qualified professional rather than an amateur.
2. Plan
The majority of additional disruptions and delays are the result of poor planning. Before you start any additional project, make sure your contractor completely understands what you want and has detailed everything in your contract so there is no confusion. But keep in mind that planning involves both the contractor and you. There will be a delay if you have new ideas halfway through the project, so be an active participant in the planning process to ensure you ask for exactly what you want early on.
3. Obtain the necessary permits
Your contractor tears down your wall... and then the city shows up. Your project will be halted if you and your contractor have not followed local building codes and obtained the necessary permits. However, this is a preventable delay! Your contractor should understand building codes (if they don't, start over and find a new contractor!). Your contractor should know what permits are required and should assist you in obtaining them once they have a thorough understanding of your project. No contractor should start work without the necessary permits.
4. Make a clear project timeline
Once you and your contractor have a plan in place, they should be able to estimate when the job will be completed. Your contractor should be able to provide a rough timeline for when each component of the addition will be finished. Understand that this will not be an exact timeline; some delays are unavoidable. Even if you've planned perfectly, unexpected weather (like spring snowstorms! ), a backlog at the permit office, or waiting on shipments of the right material for the job can and will slow things down. However, having a general idea of the timeline will hold your contractor accountable and prevent your project from taking years!
Final Thoughts
A home addition can help you create the home of your dreams, but it is a significant investment. While you can't plan for everything, anticipating potential delays and disruptions can help you complete your project on time (and on a budget). Working with a reputable general contracting company is the best option. You can be confident when you work with someone who has previous experience with projects like yours.
Attitash Builders being the best home renovation contractors has experience building additions (on time and on a budget), and we would be delighted to assist you in creating the addition of your dreams. Request your consultation today if you're ready to take the next step toward building your addition.
