Before hiring a contractor to work on your old house, check his or her supervisory skills. The way the contractor oversees and manages workers can make a big difference in how happy you are with the end results.
In any business, management plays a vital role in putting the parts together and keeping the wheels turning. This is critical during a home renovation, as one phase has to be completed before the next can begin. A good project supervisor knows how to hire the right workers and keep them productive, thus keeping the project moving.
Questions to Ask
As you interview contractors, ask about job site supervision. How often will the contractor be on site to supervise, versus supervising other jobs? Look for a contractor who always is available--via phone or in person--to answer workers' questions and help troubleshoot any problems.
Also ask how many workers the contractor expects to use each day. This might affect your access to the area, as well as parking and other household logistics. Pay attention to the contractor's response. He should be forthcoming about discussing the daily work schedule, not defensive and evasive.
While the number of workers will vary, the contractor should have access to a good labor pool and know how to schedule for each construction phase. You don't want a two-person crew installing drywall for a major renovation or eight people standing around waiting for an electrical inspector.
The Daily Routine
A large part of the contractor's role is supervising the crew. This covers everything from overseeing the daily schedule to ensuring that workers park in the right place and obey local construction laws. By hiring a strong supervisor, you can alleviate many of the stress factors that make remodeling a challenge.
About The Author
Allison E. Beatty is an avid old house enthusiast who has been renovating houses and writing about them for more than 10 years. She contributes regularly to national newspaper, magazines, and web sites. She lives in an 1888 Victorian era home.
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