Construction Rates Per Square Foot Explained

Absolutely, it is the renovation contractor’s responsibility to carry proper insurance, but checking it is your protection. You need to verify they have two main types: General Liability (to cover damage to your property) and Worker’s Compensation (to cover any injuries to their crew while on your site). If they are uninsured and an accident occurs, you, the homeowner, could potentially be held financially or legally responsible. It’s a crucial step that safeguards your investment and your peace of mind.

We strongly advise against immediately accepting the lowest bid. While saving money is important, a dramatically low price often indicates that the renovation contractor has either:

• Used subpar materials to cut costs.

• Failed to include critical scope items (like permits or cleanup) that will become surprise “change orders” later.

• Underestimated the time or labor required, leading to rush jobs and poor quality. Always compare the itemized details, not just the final number. A professional bid should be comprehensive and transparent.

Clear communication is the lifeblood of a smooth project. While the frequency depends on the size of the job, a reputable renovation contractor should commit to at least one scheduled update per week (either a phone call or a quick site meeting). On-site, you should have a dedicated supervisor who is available to address immediate, day-to-day concerns. If a contractor only communicates when they need a payment or there’s a problem, that’s a red flag.

A Change Order is a formal, written agreement to modify the original contract’s scope, timeline, or cost. This happens when you change your mind on a material, or when the renovation contractor discovers an unforeseen issue (like mold or bad wiring) hidden behind a wall. A clear process is vital because it ensures every change is approved by you in writing before the work is done. This prevents budget surprises and keeps both parties aligned on the final cost and schedule.

A professional renovation contractor should stand by their work. Most reputable companies offer a workmanship warranty for a set period, typically one year from the project’s completion date. This warranty covers any defects that arise specifically from their labor or installation (e.g., faulty tile placement, settling cracks). Ensure this warranty is clearly detailed in your final contract.