Home Renovation Planning – A Home Remodeling Checklist

At some point in time, you will probably take a good look at your home and see areas for improvement. Whether your project involves expansion for a growing family or modernizing outdated features, it will involve careful home renovation planning. This guide will help you through the process.

Home Remodeling Checklist

Complete this home remodeling checklist and use it when discussing your home renovation project with your contractor. This will ensure you are on the same page in regard to the remodel details and process.

For the Homeowner:

– What do you like about your current space?

– What do you dislike about your current space?

– Prioritize the following options: brand name of materials, budget flexibility, energy efficiency, function of space, look of space, traffic flow through space, project timeframe

– What colors do you want for your new space?

– What type of design do you want for your new space?

– How many adults and children live in your house? What kind of pets do you have, and how many? Do you plan to expand your family? Is accommodation for special needs required?

– How long will you be residing in the remodeled house? (this will help you break down the cost per year)

– What is your estimated project budget?

– When should the project be completed?

For the Contractor:

– How will the process work for choosing paint colors, appliances, etc.?

– Is the budget for my remodel realistic?

– How long will my home renovation project take to complete?

– What will be the working hours, and how many people will be working in my home?

– How will you protect my home exterior and landscape from workers and machinery?

– If the water and power are turned off, how much notice will I receive?

– Will there be a dumpster and portable toilet on my property? If so, where will they be located and who will be responsible for emptying and maintaining them?

– Will the crew clean up every night?

– Who will be my primary contact? If that person is not available, who will be my alternate contact?

– Can you arrange for moving and storage of our personal items, or are we responsible for clearing out our space before the project begins?

Choosing a Contractor

Hiring a remodeling contractor is the most important decision you will make during home renovation planning. Don’t rush this step. Visit websites of professional associations and ask people for recommendations. Do you need a general contractor, design/build contractor and/or architect? Think about the scope of your project. You will need design services if you are considering an involved or a large home renovation project. Major additions to your home will require plans and permits along with an architect, electrician, framers, flooring crews, HVAC professional, plumber, finish carpenters and more, with a general contractor coordinating the project.

Here are some things you will need to know:

– Find out how long the contractor has been in business. Ideally you will want to hire someone with at least 5-10 years of industry experience.

– Ask about the crew’s normal work hours and whether you will be contacted if the schedule is delayed. Find out when they can start and when they can be finished. If you have a deadline in mind, see if your timetable is realistic.

– Determine what permits will be required for your projects. These permits must be obtained prior to beginning any work.