One of the most satisfying investments you can make is adding a room to your house. Correctly executed, the new bedroom or family room (or whatever type of room you want) will transform your home and increase its value in the market when the time comes to sell it.
The contractor you select can have a significant impact on the entire process of adding a room. A good, trustworthy contractor will make it all happen with minimum hassle. If you don’t choose wisely, though, you have to be prepared for work delays, unexpected invoices, and a lot of stress. That’s why knowing the exact qualities to look for is crucial.
Have a Clear Vision
Think of the type of addition you want and the purpose it will serve before you start calling contractors. First, decide if you wish to build up and add a floor or out by expanding the walls. A clear concept will help the contractors provide you with a more accurate price.
Equally important is your budget when calculating; factor in 10-20% as a contingency for surprises that may pop up during construction.
Verify Credentials and Experience
You can’t just take a contractor’s word for experience, quality, or legality. You need to do your own research and look for possible red flags.
Check References
Online reviews are a good place to start, but this should not be your only research. Ask your top candidates for a list of at least three references from recent jobs. Call these clients and ask questions.
- Did they stay on schedule?
- How did they handle any unexpected changes or problems?
- Was the job site kept clean and safe?
- Would you hire them again?
If it’s feasible, request to see a completed job. Check the details of finished work, including the trim, flooring transitions, and paint.
Every construction project must follow local building codes. Ensure any contractor you consider is licensed, bonded, and insured. General liability and workers’ compensation are essential. They protect you from being sued if a worker is injured on your property or if your home is damaged during construction.
The Advantages of a Seamless Construction Process
A big mistake people make is starting without a plan. Adding a room takes more than tools and materials. It requires architectural plans and a way to connect all the pipes and electrical wiring to the new space.
You may think it’s best to start by hiring an architect and then find a contractor. However, there are good reasons to use a more integrated approach. Contractors who offer planning and design services can carry out the project smoothly. This approach keeps you on the same page with your aesthetic vision and budget before the first shovel breaks ground.
Communication and Chemistry
You will have a relatively long relationship with your contractor. Home additions can take anywhere from three to six months, or even longer. During that time, this person and their crew will be involved in your day-to-day life.
Your instincts during the interview are important. Does the person listen to you? Are they respectful of your time? Excellent communication is a must. The ideal partner for such a significant endeavor is transparent, respects your home, and is easy to talk to if something goes wrong.
Review the Contract and Payment Schedule
Don’t let someone start work based on only a verbal agreement. A professional contract must lay out what work is included, the materials to be used, the time frame for the job, and the total bill.
Pay close attention to the payment schedule. It’s customary to pay a deposit to secure your place on the schedule. Do not pay in full for everything at once. Connect your payments with the completion of milestones. These could be when the framing is done or after the electrical work has been approved. This gives you the leverage to get the job done to your satisfaction.
For Best Results, Plan Every Detail
Few projects get done without experiencing at least a few minor problems. Good planning is what helps you avoid major hurdles. Missing something now can mean dealing with significant issues later. Take your time and look into everything before starting. This enables you to avoid surprises and get precisely what you want.