How Can You Really Help Your Los Angeles Remodeler
When you undertake a home remodeling project in the Los Angeles area, it’s your project. Naturally, that means you want to be involved. After all, it’s your home. But if you’ve enlisted the services of a professional remodeler, what’s the best way to be involved? How can you really help your remodeler so that you end up with the best possible result?
You’ve probably heard about the homeowner who asked his remodeler what his hourly rate was. The remodeler replied: “$75 an hour. If you watch and make comments, its $150 an hour. If you want to help, it’s $250 an hour.”
That story may not be entirely true, but if you employ a professional remodeler, you should let him do his job. You can still help, but your help won’t involve a hammer or saw. Here are some ways you can really help your remodeler – without throwing a wrench in the works:
Give your remodeler access. Make sure that your remodeler has access to your home when he needs it. He’ll probably need to be there at times when you’re not, so if you’re not there to let him in, figure out a way to let him in.
Clarify responsibilities. Necessary permits need to be pulled before construction starts. Make sure you know who is pulling the necessary permits – the designer, the contractor or you. A good contractor will pull the necessary electrical, mechanical, building or remodeling permits, but make sure he’s not expecting you to do it.
Create a staging area for appliances and materials. It’s a lot easier for your remodeler to work if all of the materials he needs are in one easy-to-access place. If possible, clear everything else out of the way.
Plan and pack ahead of time. It’s really a big help if you can move things out of the construction area before your remodeling starts. Collect sturdy re-sealable boxes for packing up items you won’t use during the renovation period. Not only will this get them out of the way, but it protects them from dust and damage (Yes, there will be dust!). Label your boxes so you can find what you need later. The day before tear out begins; you should be down to basics that will be kept in the most accessible boxes.
Move pictures, mirrors, furniture and knickknacks. Keep things away from the walls adjacent to the room you’re renovating to prevent construction vibration from causing damage.
You’ll have plenty to do – without even touching a hammer. And it really will help to make things go more smoothly!
