When selecting a remodeling contractor, simply looking at the estimate is not enough. The two estimates you get for the same kitchen, bathroom, or total house remodel can appear drastically different because contractors include different materials, labor, preparations, and project management. Once you know this going into the agreement with your contractor, you will be able to avoid the surprise costs and make better choices regarding your house by knowing what was included in each estimate.
Look Beyond the Remodeling Estimate
A good estimate will describe the work that will be done, what materials are used in the project, and what is included in the estimate price. Additionally, the estimate should list any exclusions that could add to the final bill.
The lowest-priced estimate does not always mean best value. For example, one contractor may include demolition of the existing structure, removal of all debris, and coordination of other trades in their estimate; another contractor may exclude these elements. Be certain to compare estimates on the same scope of work.
If an estimate seems too low, ask the contractor to describe how they arrived at the price. A professional contractor should be able to clearly describe the proposed work, note assumptions made in developing the estimate, and provide explanations for how costs could vary.
Check a Remodeling Contractor’s Experience, References, and Credentials
Experience and ability to complete jobs like yours will be important factors in finding a qualified contractor. For example, someone experienced in bathroom renovations has probably encountered issues such as waterproofing, coordinating plumbing systems, and working in small confined spaces. Whole-house remodels bring new demands such as scheduling multiple tradespeople and managing work across many parts of the house.
Research completed projects, review customer comments, and request references from past customers. If possible, talk to owners who have completed a project similar to yours. The experiences they have had may give you valuable insight into communication style, dependability, and how the contractor managed any unplanned events during construction.
Registration and licensure alone do not ensure quality craftsmanship or quality service. Verify that the contractor is registered with the Pennsylvania State Office of Attorney General if performing over $5,000 in annual home improvement work. Use PA's official contractor verification system to confirm this before signing anything.
Pay Attention to Communication and Project Planning
Poor communication can cause even the most well-designed renovation to become chaotic. Before hiring your contractor, you should understand who will be your primary contact person, how often you'll hear about progress updates, and how the crew communicates schedule changes.
Ask questions like, "How does the company coordinate subcontractors? Who is responsible for ordering materials? What is the order of operations?” etc. These things matter because once there is a delay in delivery of one item or a task is left incomplete, it will negatively impact all succeeding phases.
No contractor can anticipate everything they find behind a wall or below an old floor. What matters is how their crew reacts when they encounter an issue. Professional contractors explain why there is an issue; they discuss options available to them; they clearly outline cost and schedule impacts associated with doing additional work.
Read the Contract Before Work Begins
Your written agreement should define the project scope, price, materials, estimated commencement date(s), completion date(s), payment terms, and method for obtaining approval for any change(s). In Pennsylvania, home improvement agreements must comply with the state's Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA).
The Pennsylvania Attorney General provides information regarding homeowner rights related to cancellation of a home improvement contract. Generally speaking, homeowners have up to 3 business days after signing a covered home improvement agreement to cancel said agreement without penalty, except as otherwise permitted by law.
Do not rely solely on verbal promises to fill gaps in an agreement. Any discussions of additional features, replacement of materials, or deviations from the original plan agreed upon must be documented in writing so as to protect both parties' interests.
References
PA Office of Attorney General: Home Improvement Contractor Registration
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