Gut it!

Selecting a contractor can be problematic if you are not prepared.  Word of mouth helps but everyone has a different idea of a good job or good value.  So how do you compare contractors?

The best way is to  prepare a written scope of work aka: bid package.

Two rooms are now one.

Giving one bid package to all contractors under consideration helps to insure you’ll get fair bids.  Writing down the details helps you as the homeowner organize your concepts.  Too often people present just an idea verbally.   This leaves a lot of room for interpretation or for the conversation to change each time you present it to a new contractor which makes it hard to compare bids.

• Be as specific as you can.  Outline every detail you have.  The more details you have the more accurate your bid will be.   Never  write “new kitchen faucet” with out specifying the one you want.  One contractor might budget for a $60 faucet and another for $250 when in reality you want the $450 Hansgrohe one in polished chrome.
• If you haven’t made a decision on an item yet indicate that.   If you know you want granite countertops but not what granite just say “granite countertops to be determined”.   But keep these items to a minimum.
• In this bid package attach any written plans (drawings) you have received from your kitchen designer, interior designer or architect.
• Have the designer and/or architect review plan with potential contractor before they bid to make certain the contractor understands exactly what is expected.

Good contractors appreciate this.  It makes bidding the job much easier.  Contractors like clients who make decisions and know what they want.

Most contractors are professionals and are happy to provide bids/estimates in writing.  Run fast and far from a contractor who balks at giving a detailed written estimate.

Kitchen or bathroom remodeling projects have the most details.  Nail down the specific details.   Specifying white subway tile is not enough.  List what/who’s white subway tile you have selected.  There is difference in sheen, thickness, texture and size.  Generalizing will only lead to unhappiness.

Great communication makes for a fabulous project.  You can set the tone with the scope of work.