Kitchen remodeling is one of the most desired renovations for homeowners. At the same time, it’s one of the most complicated, costly, and time-consuming projects imaginable. According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average kitchen remodel costs anywhere between $11,192 and $28,621, including hardwood floors, custom cabinets, high-end appliances, and granite counters. On the other hand, smaller projects can range between $10,000 and $15,000, including a tile backsplash, sink upgrades, refacing cabinets, and painting walls. Due to the complexity and difficulty associated with kitchen renovations, it’s vital to utilize an experienced contractor. The following information provides a few insightful tips to prevent you from getting burned from an unscrupulous kitchen renovation contractor.
Three Truths About Kitchen Renovation Contractors
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The contractor is only as good as their last job. While many contractors win jobs based on their industry reputation, it’s vital to always look at a contractor’s current portfolio of work. Circumstances change and contractors switch laborers and subcontractors, which can both affect the quality of their work. When you are choosing a kitchen renovation contractor, make sure you ask them to provide you with references.
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The best kitchen remodeling contractors are worth waiting for. When a contractor does exemplary work, they will be in demand, which means the best contractors will be the busiest ones. In the process of choosing a contractor, don’t be afraid to wait for the right one. Build your renovation schedule around the schedule of the contractor of your dreams, not vice versa.
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Seeing is believing. In addition to getting references on completed jobs, you should also attempt to visit a job the contractor has in progress. This will allow you to get a first hand idea about the contractor’s commitment to safety and quality. Pay attention to whether the contractor is courteous and careful with the homeowner’s property.
Get Recommendations and Research
One of the best ways to find a qualified kitchen renovation contractor is by getting referrals from friends and family members or by speaking with your local building inspector because they will know the contractors that regularly meet code requirements. You can also speak to the owner of the local lumberyard to see which contractors pay their bills on time and purchase quality materials. Regardless of how you get a list of contractors, make sure to check their registration with the National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI). NARI is the leading organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. All NARI members are committed to the craft and held to a high level of integrity, ethics, professional development, and market recognition.
Get Everything in Writing
Like any major transaction, it’s vital you get everything in writing through a contractual agreement. While every professional may use a different type of contract, some of the most common items that should be included are:
- A start date and projected finish date;
- Proof of worker’s compensation payments and liability insurance;
- A payment schedule;
- A site plan and a sequential schedule of the main construction tasks;
- A clause for change-orders;
- A list of the specific products and materials to be used;
- A lien release in the contract, which protects you if he doesn’t pay the bill to suppliers and subcontractors.
When you insist on a clear and comprehensive contract, it’s not about distrust. It’s about protecting you and your family, while insuring a successful renovation. Make sure the contract is clear and ask the contractor to review it with you before you sign it.
Avoid Big Deposits
In most instances, you will be expected to pay a deposit when you sign the contract. However, the deposit shouldn’t be used to cover the set-up costs or initial materials for the contractor.
A financially sound contractor will have an established line of credit for the required materials. Most contractors require around 10% for a deposit. In addition, a reputable contractor will typically offer a payment plan that requires payments after the completion of certain phases.
Payment schedules speak directly to the financial strength and work ethic of the contractor.
Avoid Making a Decision on Price
Although a low bid may be attractive, you should be very leary of lowball bids. This professional is either desperate for work or cutting corners with cheaper materials.
When choosing a contractor, the single most important factor is how well you communicate with the professional and your level of comfortability. If all things were equal, it’s much better to spend a little more money for kitchen renovation contractor that you are comfortable with.
Although choosing a kitchen renovation contractor may seem to be an overwhelming task, it doesn’t have to be. With over almost 40 years of experience, GAMCO Remodeling is the leader in kitchen renovations. Instead of trusting a shady contractor, contact GAMCO Remodeling today for a in-home kitchen renovation consultation.
