4 Things That A Remodeling Contractor Won't Tell You

If you've recently hired a remodeling contractor, everything might seem simple. We're sorry to tell you that in all jobs, there are things that the company hasn't warned you about. Don't be scared, but it's important to take these things into account.
4 Things That A Remodeling Contractor Won't Tell You

Last update: 10 June, 2019

In every remodel, the same thing happens. At first, everything seems simple. Then, things can get complicated. So that you don’t get caught out, we’re going to tell you four things that a remodeling contractor won’t tell you.

This is the best way to be prepared for your remodel and face any problems head-on. Otherwise, you’ll end up desperate, with neverending construction that is getting more and more expensive. In this post, we’ll tell you these things. We’ll also explain how to avoid them so you can enjoy your remodeled home as soon as possible.

In the end, you know that you’re going to end up in the house of dreams. Without a doubt, you’ll have a great reward after all the headaches that come with a remodel.

1. Construction lasts longer than deadlines indicate

A remodeling contractor won't tell you a few things.

This is one of the biggest things a remodeling contractor won’t tell you. A remodel that is just going to take a few days can end up being weeks where you almost can’t live in your home. It’s common for permits and materials to arrive late. Unforeseen events can also come up. For example, sometimes other people working on the project don’t start work on time.

Our advice is to keep in mind that the construction timeline will be longer than anticipated. In other words, if they say it’s going to take five days, prepare yourself for it to take a week or two. That way you’ll be ready to calmly deal with the extended timeline. On the other hand, you can always complain to the remodeling contractor if the construction is taking too long.

2. The remodeling contractor will end up increasing the estimate

A remodeling budget can go up.

All construction starts the same way. You ask for an estimate. If you agree, construction begins. Sometimes you don’t realize that you’ll usually end up paying a lot more than the estimate. There are often things that someone didn’t take into account or unforeseen circumstances.

Sometimes you also decide to expand the remodel in some way. Once you’ve started and your house is already turned upside down, you might want to remodel other rooms, such as the bathroom.

You might also want to install new insulation in the house. As a result, estimates will go up a lot.

The best thing to do is to be clear from the beginning about what you’re doing to do. Then you should also have the budget printed and signed by both you and the remodeling contractor. That way the contractor can’t increase the budget later.

You also have to keep in mind that there are ways to reduce the costs of a housing remodel. If you use some of these methods, you can avoid this kind of problem.

3. Unforeseen circumstances

A remodeling contractor may take more time than estimated.

Plan for unforeseen circumstances because they’ll most likely happen. There might be a missing permit, delayed materials, or some sort of accident. Whatever it is, there’s almost always an unforeseen circumstance sooner or later. As a result, contractors push the deadline back and the budget goes up.

The best way to avoid any unforeseen problems is to do a thorough study before starting any work. You might want to start the remodel as soon as possible, but we don’t recommend rushing. It’s worthwhile doing an analysis to minimize any unforeseen events and shorten the deadline.

You should know the materials that you’re working with and the status of all orders. This is essential to avoid any unforeseen events. On the other hand, the best idea is to be patient and try to solve any issues that come up as quickly as possible.

4. Lack of communication between different contractors

Someone working on blueprints for a remodel.

For example, for a full remodel for a kitchen, there are a variety of people involved. You’ll need masons, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians. It’s common that they might not always agree, arguments happen, and, as a consequence, this can delay the work. If one of these professionals doesn’t meet the deadline, then it affects the rest of the workers as well.

A good solution is to hire a remodeling company that contracts all the professionals you need. That way you don’t have to depend on any third parties and it will reduce any unforeseen circumstances.