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Tips for Surviving a Remodeling Project

by Michele Dawson

You've been dreaming about getting your kitchen remodel project under way for months - the nice new countertops, the beautiful cabinets, the perfect floor, and the chic appliances. But have you thought about how you're going to live - or eat - while the project is under construction? You should.

It's a situation that is occurring more frequently as households throughout the country upgrade, replace, and transform their homes on the heels of rising home appreciation rates and low interest rates. Each year about 26 million Americans spend more than $180 billion on improvements to their homes, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

But whether you're undergoing a two-week or two-month remodel, you'll need to know how the process will go - how you'll cook if you're going through a kitchen remodel, and how you'll shower and primp for work if you're having a bathroom remodel. And how you'll live with a work crew and materials scattered about your house.

As you sort out the details of your project with your contractor, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry offers some tips to ensure your project goes smoothly and your life can stay as normal as possible. For starters, be sure to:

Spell out the process. Ask the contractor what specifically will be done, when, and how long each task will take.

Plan for extra storage. The contractor is going to have extra tools, materials, and equipment in the house to complete the project, so you'll want to find a good spot for them.

Have the contractor's phone number handy. Also, you should designate one family go-to person so wires don't get crossed and communication and direction stays clear and consistent.

Plan for the logistics. This involves all the delivering, shipping, and ordering of materials for the job.

Check locks and keys. You might need to share keys with the contractor. Be sure you know who is responsible.

Keep clear. Make sure you, your kids and pets stay out of the way of the work crews.

Expect the unexpected. There are myriad things that go askew during a remodel - the bigger the project, the greater the potential - like late deliveries, strikes, wrong parts, adverse weather, on-the-spot changes, and the like.

Expect high standards. Expect high-quality workmanship, but don't expect to get too much more than you're paying for.

Protect your household items. Cover furniture and carpeting. A lot of dust typically kicks up, so you may want to put some furniture in storage and have draperies cleaned. A good contractor will help you cover and protect the work area.

Keep your cool. Staying calm and flexible is key in ensuring a smooth project.

Treat the workers nicely. A word of appreciation, a cup of coffee or a cold iced-tea on a hot day goes a long way.

Try not to question every step. Workers are following orders and construction specs. Keep your discussions about the project with the authorized contractor.

Plan ahead to do without water or power if lines are shut off.

If you're going through a major remodel, you may want to think about renting or staying with relatives or friends, especially if your kitchen appliances are inaccessible during the project. But if you do that, be sure you stay in close contact with your contractor and that you check on the progress on a regular basis.

Also, check your insurance coverage BEFORE the work begins. If the new work is damaged or destroyed before additional coverage takes effect, you could be responsible for repair costs, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Home insurance policies typically require that you insure your home to at least 80 percent of its replacement cost. About 25 percent of remodeling projects result in a home value increase of at least 25 percent, according to the Independent Insurance Agents of America. In such cases homeowners insurance needs to be increased to provide adequate coverage. And, of course, never make the final payment until the job is complete.

Published: July 29, 2002

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.

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