home additions, home renovations

One of the first steps in home remodeling in Wellesley, MA, is finding the right contractors to do the work. However, once you choose a company for your renovations, you’ll need to work with them on a home remodeling contract so everyone knows what to expect. The following are some of the things you should be sure are included in your contract to prevent surprises and ensure a smooth process.

A Detailed Description

The last thing you want is to complete your home remodeling in Massachusetts, only to find the contractors didn’t do all of the work you expected. Including a detailed description of all the work that needs to be done will ensure you are covered if they miss something along the way. It also eliminates any uncertainties and many questions that can delay the progress of your project. 

Total Price and Payment Plan

While the cost of the project may require some adjustment due to changes, either at your request or because of unforeseen circumstances, it’s essential to include the projected final price of your project in your remodeling contract. In addition to the cost, the contract should detail the payment schedule. Many construction companies allow you to make payments through the process that are usually attached to hitting specific milestones. Be sure these milestones and payment requirements are listed in the document to protect you and the contractor.

Procedure for Making Changes

There are many reasons you or your contractor may wish to make changes during the home remodeling process. Perhaps you’ve changed your mind about the addition in Wellesley, or maybe the contractor encountered a problem that requires a slight change to a specific feature you’ve selected. Regardless of the reason for the change, it’s necessary to protect yourself from unilateral changes with stipulations in your remodeling contract. This portion of the contract should address how to go about making changes, both for you and the contractor.

Address Lien Waivers

You’ve likely heard horror stories about contractors claiming they weren’t paid for the work performed. This is solved with lien waivers, which are typically signed when certain aspects of the project are completed and paid for. Your remodeling contract should include stipulations that require lien waivers after every payment you make. These waivers give you peace of mind you’re protected from claims you didn’t pay the appropriate amount at the end of the project.

Set a Schedule

Home remodeling in Massachusetts doesn’t always go according to schedule. However, when drafting a contract with your remodeling contractors, you should insist on a written schedule that details specific milestones for the project and when they are expected to be reached. While your contractors may not be able to stick to the schedule precisely due to various circumstances, this will give you a clear idea of what to expect throughout the project.

Don’t Forget Signatures

Without a signature from you and your remodeling company, a remodeling contract isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. After you work with your contractors to develop a contract, make sure both parties sign all copies. These signatures protect you and the contractors in the event either party breaks the details of the contract. Never proceed with a project until those signatures are properly in place.

If you want a home addition or any other remodeling service in Wellesley, MA, contact us to start working your remodeling contract today!