Hiring a contractor to remodel your kitchen can take some time and once you find one, it can be complicated to have all the details you want clearly. KOB Kitchen brings you the things you should consider talking to your contractor before starting a kitchen project.
Before you sign an agreement, you should feel that your contractor clearly understands what you want. And you should also have a clear picture of what steps they will take to ensure you get the kitchen of your dreams.
One important thing is to know if the contractor you chose has insurance. Ask for a copy of the certificate of insurance, which should list you as “additionally insured,” in case the policy expires in the midst of the renovation.
Another important thing is to write everything that is established and agreed upon. That includes an itemized list of labor and materials, with prices, from carpentry to electrical work; who is responsible for obtaining permits and scheduling inspections and what the penalty will be if the job is not completed on time.
A lot of you won’t be able to supervise the work each day so talk through how the contractor should access your home and where a key will be kept, and review security codes for alarm systems for the time they start working.
The first meeting is really important, but subsequent meetings during construction are also important. Set a regular time — whether weekly, every other week or at certain milestones — so that you have the opportunities to see the work as it progresses, answer questions from your contractor and ask questions of your own.
Also find out if your contractor prefers email or phone conversations, if there is a project manager or office assistant who you’ll also be in touch with, and how your contractor will be documenting your discussions.
