Home Reno Gone Awry

Mastering the Contract: Steering Clear of Renovation Regrets

10/28/2023

Embarking on a renovation journey is a thrilling adventure filled with visions of transforming your space into something beautiful. Our adventure began with excitement as we partnered with Kaiser Construction. However, as we navigated through the process, we hit several roadblocks that turned our dream project into a financial and emotional drain. The epicenter of our woes was the contract - a document we initially overlooked but later realized was our shield against the storm of renovation mishaps. As we share our story, we aim to spotlight the crucial role a well-detailed contract plays in ensuring a smooth renovation journey.

The Deposit Dilemma

Right from the start, the deposit was a red flag. We were asked for a sum far beyond the typical 10% or $1,000, whichever is less. This heavy upfront payment left us financially tethered when things started to falter.

Painting Pitfalls

By Day 2, the shoddy exterior painting job revealed unlicensed "foreman" / painters using low-grade paint, a cost-cutting move that was charged at a premium. A detailed contract specifying the quality and brand of materials could have averted this.

Contractor Credentials

Our contractor, although newly licensed, boasted a wealth of experience. The unfolding reality revealed this project was her first major venture, with an unlicensed crew contributing to a cascade of shoddy work. It was a stark reminder to verify the credentials and past work of the contractor.

Permit Perils

We were misled about permit requirements, particularly for our primary bath renovation. We were told it was “all cosmetics,” but altering plumbing and electrical systems always necessitates a permit - a fact that was omitted in our contract, leading to further complications.

Useful Tips for Your Renovation Journey:

Vet Your Contractor: Ensure your contractor is licensed and insured. Ask for references, and if possible, visit their previous projects.
Get Multiple Bids: Seek several bids to understand the market rate and to find a contractor who resonates with your vision and budget.
Demand a Detailed Contract: A thorough contract should outline the scope of work, materials to be used, payment schedule, and timeline. It should also have clear terms for any changes in the scope of work and dispute resolution.
Understand Permit Requirements: Know which aspects of your renovation require permits and who will obtain them. It’s advisable to double-check with your local municipality for permit requirements.
Set a Fair Payment Schedule: Establish a reasonable payment schedule aligned with project milestones. Avoid hefty upfront payments.
Include a Change Order Clause: Any changes in the work scope should be documented and agreed upon, ensuring transparency and agreement on additional costs.
Have a Dispute Resolution Plan: Have a clear mechanism in place to address any disagreements that may arise during the project.

As we slowly put our home back together, the lessons learned are imprinted deeply. The ordeal has fortified us with the wisdom to discern the importance of a robust contract. We share our narrative to help illuminate your path, ensuring your renovation story is one of joy and satisfaction, devoid of the tribulations we encountered.