You’ve decided that the time has come to begin construction on that house extension, which is fantastic! The fact that there are so many various kinds of extensions makes them the ideal method to personalize your house and provide the extra room you require. The first step is deciding to build, but many homeowners struggle with this decision. You want to add a room, but you’ve heard horror stories about contractors who start a job, disregard the budget and schedule, and then abandon it in the middle. You want a gorgeous, useful additional area in your house, not a hassle that will cost a fortune and never be finished! So how do you prevent snags and delays with home additions?
How to Prevent Home Addition Delays and Disruptions
- Select the appropriate contractor. Who is the ideal contractor? When selecting a general contractor for your project, there are many factors to consider. Do they have experience with the kind of job you’re looking to have done? For instance, you shouldn’t employ a roofing contractor if you’re building an addition. Do you trust them? Investigate the contractors by reading internet reviews and asking for references. Do they possess the necessary qualifications? Do you need to hire a licensed expert to complete the work you’re doing? Finding a trained professional—not an amateur—will be easier if you do your research upfront.
- Plan (and plan and plan and plan… and plan). The majority of additional delays and interruptions are the result of inadequate planning. Before you start any extension project, confirm that your contractor fully comprehends your needs and has outlined them all in your contract to avoid complications. But keep in mind that planning involves both the contractor and you. Be an active participant in the planning process to ensure that you request exactly what you want early on. If you come up with fresh ideas halfway through the project, there will be a delay.
- Obtain the necessary licenses. Your contractor tears down your wall, and then a city official arrives. Your project will be put on hold if you and your contractor didn’t follow the local building codes and obtain the required permits. However, this delay is easily preventable! Building codes should be known to your contractor; if not, start over and find another one. Your contractor should be able to assist you in obtaining the appropriate permits after they have a complete grasp of your project. Without the required permits, no contractor should start their work.
- Make the project’s schedule clear. Once you and your contractor have a strategy in place, they need to have an idea of when the work can be finished. A general schedule of when each component of the addition will be finished should be provided by your contractor. Recognize that there will be delays; this is not a precise timeframe. Even with the best of planning, delays can still occur due to unforeseen weather (like spring snowstorms!), delays at the permit office, or waiting for the shipping of the necessary materials. However, if you have a broad notion of the timetable, you may hold your contractor responsible and prevent a lengthy project!
Moving Forward
Although it is a significant commitment, a home addition can help you create the dream home of your dreams. Even while you can’t plan for everything, being prepared can help you prevent anticipated delays and disruptions so you can complete your project on schedule (and within your budget). Working with a reputable general contracting business is the best course of action. You may feel confidence working with someone who has experience on projects similar to yours. JPS Cedar Park Construction & Remodeling has expertise in building extensions (on schedule and under budget), and we would love to work with you to design the addition of your dreams. Request your free consultation right away if you’re prepared to move forward with building your expansion.
