When you hire a contractor to plan and accomplish a house renovation project, it does not mean you can leave the scene and come back when the job is done. It is a mere understatement to say that your presence during the planning and completion is necessary. The truth is that contractors and clients need to work hand in hand.

1. Know the preferred payment arrangement of the contractor. An advance payment may be needed to set off the renovation project. If you make prompt payment, the contractor or builder will put you in their priority list. But do not make complete payment before the work is done.

2. Make sure contracts are on print. Read the contract and make sure you understand the terms and conditions before making agreements. Remember that once you sign a contract, it means you agree to what is stipulated there (whether you have read it or not).

3. Check details of your house before the renovation. If possible, take photos of the area that would be renovated to see a before-and-after comparison. Check details that should be removed or modified upon renovation.

4. Check renovation progress every now and then. Minor mistakes can happen anytime, and you can notify the contractor regarding such mistakes so that they are corrected immediately.

5. Be careful in expressing your gratitude to the builder or contractor. If you praise your contractor too much, the prices tend to go up, as the contractor would feel they are doing great. Point out even small mistakes. Act like a perfectionist, as that would increase chances of satisfaction in the end.

6. Home renovations mean workers have to get access to your house. This poses some security risk. Although your contractor may assure you the workers they employ are trustworthy, be wary still, especially if you have to be at work away from home all day long. Keep rooms locked and keep valuable items inside safety drawers. Have your keys with you.

7. Making daily follow-ups on work progress is not bad, but as much as possible make calls early in the morning or late in the afternoon. They are busy in the middle of the day and may miss your call.

8. Do not hesitate to make suggestions or modifications even if an agreement has been made. Some clients are hesitant. Do not be hesitant to point out even minor changes you wish to make. Remember you are still the one paying everything in the end.

9. Just before the renovation gets concluded, check the work. Inspect the area to see mistakes, and then point out the mistakes to your contractor. Read more...