Professionals bring the commercial-grade tools and years of experience to deliver the quality upgrades people desire. Although you and your contractor may work in different industries, written agreements help clarify the duties and expectations.
One of the pitfalls of enlisting a contractor comes from miscommunication. This can lead to disagreements about the scope, details, and costs. By including the following things in your home renovation contract, you can ensure everyone is on the same page.
A construction contract should always include a detailed description of the project. It's also wise to note every duty the contractor agrees to perform. When the project description identifies the following items and others specific to the work, disputes can be avoided.
Many contractors won't begin a job before you pay a deposit. That money may go toward start-up expenses or materials. It's not unusual for construction professionals to work a deal in which they charge for labor and the homeowners put materials and products on their account. This can sometimes cause confusion over total payment amounts. Make sure your contract includes these details to avoid confusion and more serious ramifications.
What happens if a worker claims they were not paid despite the fact you fulfilled your financial obligations? While uncommon, this situation can happen unless you include a "lien waiver" in your contract. This process uses invoices that indicate all crew members were paid from the previous disbursement. Once the contractor signs it, you can rest easier with this legal protection in place.
Sometimes homeowners and contractors discover they don't work well together. If this issue arises, a smartly crafted renovation contract allows the property owner to void the agreement without penalty. This section should outline how much the contractor gets paid based on completed work, materials and labor. Having an exit strategy could also prove useful if you suffer a financial shortfall and cannot afford to move forward.
Although some people feel that contracts are based on mistrust, they are an essential part of the construction business. Honest and well-meaning people sometimes miscommunicate or make assumptions the other person might not. A well-thought-out renovation contract helps good people remain friends when the job is done.
Christine Metros Natale
Broker and Owner
Christine Metros Natale has been one of New England’s top real estate brokers for the past 38 years. In fact, before forming Homes by Christine, Christine was one of the top 25 agents for RE/MAX and Century 21.