Interviewing a General Contractor If you’re looking for a general contractor to manage the entire kitchen project, the interview process is slightly different. In the initial meeting, the general contractor will look at your plans or drawings and discuss the scope of the project with you. Before giving you a price, the general contractor will […]
A contract is a written, signed a legal agreement between you and a kitchen contractor; it specifies the work to be done, the amount to be paid and the responsibilities of both parties. Contracts protect each of you in case there are misunderstandings during and after construction. Although it’s common to hire contractors on the basis […]
Optional Clauses In addition to the essential elements, you may wish to include optional clauses: Holdback clause. You may want to emphasise that the final payment will be withheld until you’ve inspected and approved the work. This clause gives you more leverage if you need to motivate the contractor to correct any problems. It’s sometimes […]
At this point, you’ve completed most of the major steps of planning for your kitchen remodel. You’ve polished the plan, set the budget, arranged your finances and hired help as necessary. The next, and final, step is where it all comes together. This is when the dust flies and the walls come crashing down. Even […]
Level 1: Changing the Layout: With this option, you`ll retain the same basic footprint as the existing kitchen, but change the positions of the appliances, fixtures and eating areas to create a more efficient layout. This level of remodelling includes most elements of the cosmetic makeover, but may also require the work of a carpenter, electrician and […]
Regardless of who is managing the project, it’s important that you do your part to help the job go smoothly This may include preparing your house for when the workers arrive, checking deliveries, getting permits and calling for inspections, staying in contact with contractors and keeping track of all the receipts and legal documents. Making […]
Big remodelling projects involve the delivery of large quantities of materials. If you’ve hired a general contractor, he or she will arrange the delivery of these materials and make sure all delivered goods are correct and in good condition. If you’re acting as your own general contractor, these will be your responsibilities. You also have […]
Mechanic’s Liens & Releases A mechanics lien is a legal claim on your property by a contractor or supplier who hasn’t been paid according to a legal agreement. Any licensed general contractor, subcontractor or supplier who’s involved in the improvement of your property can file a lien if they aren’t paid. It makes no difference […]
Nevv cabinets and countertops typically reflect the most significant investments in a kitchen remodeling project. In addition to their high costs, often totaling as much as 50% of the project cost, the cabinets and countertops play a decisive role in determining the look and feel of a kitchen. The choice to replace the cabinets usually […]
If it’s been a while since you last shopped for kitchen cabinets, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover that many styles and features that previously were offered only with custom cabinets are now standard in more affordable lines. If you’ve never shopped for cabinets before, you may be surprised simply by how many options […]
