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What You Should Know Before Starting a Home Remodel or Home Addition

When you are ready to do a remodel or addition to your home, the first thing you need to do is decide on your budget. It doesn’t matter if your project is small or large; you need to determine how much you can afford for the project. Of course if funds are unlimited then this is unimportant.

Small Projects

The next thing to do if it is a small project is to find a reputable subcontractor or general contractor who can perform the work competently. Subcontractors are typically licensed for one trade, for example, say you have an electrical project you would hire an electrical subcontractor. However, if your electrical project included changing an interior wall, you would need a general contractor since there would be more than one trade involved, such as, remove partition wall, frame in new partition wall, install electrical, install drywall, finish drywall and paint and last but not least, finish carpentry which would include face boards and door/window casing. There may also be floor repair for the project listed above.

Larger Projects

On larger projects where permits would be required for a remodel or addition for example, the first step would be to hire either a design/build general contractor to start on the plans or an architect to draw the plans. This planning process will also go into city requirements regarding allowable building in your area.

Finding A Good Subcontractor

Finding a good subcontractor on smaller projects can be time consuming. You need to be willing to check the credentials and references of any subcontractor you plan on hiring. This also is true when hiring a general contractor or architect.

Places to check the credentials would include, California State License Board website, to verify current active license, bonding information as well as current Workers’ Comp for your sub or general contractor.Be sure to search websites, online reviews, and referrals given by the subcontractor and general contractor.

Last but not least, referrals from people you know, such as family, friends and business associates.
If you know someone who has had a good experience with a general contractor or subcontractor and you have seen their work first hand, you will have more certainty of the ability and reputation of the subcontractor or general contractor you hire.

The bottom line is can you trust your contractor and feel confident that they will deliver the product you requested?