How to Work Effectively With a Contractor

Working with a contractor on a major home improvement project can be rewarding or frustrating, depending on whether you have chosen a competent and reliable professional for the job. But other factors are just as essential in building a good working relationship.

A well-written contract.
In addition to detailing the work to be completed, the amount to be paid, and the responsibilities of each party, a good contract should include provisions to protect both you and the contractor if terms are not met. Most contractors have their own documents, but you can supply your own. Don't hesitate to negotiate changes in a standard contract. If you're unsure of any legal language, consult an attorney. The contract will follow the project through to completion—and, if necessary, to court.

A sensible work schedule.
After you settle contract terms, discuss daily start and stop times as well as completion dates for each phase of the project. Determine if you need to leave the house (during demolition, for example) or can live there while the project is underway. Let your neighbors know what to expect in terms of traffic and noise. Be considerate; ask your contractor to avoid using power tools before 9 a.m.

A clear payment schedule.
For most projects, a staggered schedule of payments coinciding with key completion dates works best. For example, on a $25,000 bathroom remodeling project, you might set up payments this way:

Project stage	Payment
Down payment (paid when you sign the contract)	$1,000
Complete demolition and framing	$8,000
Install fixtures	$11,000
Project finished	$2,500
10 percent final payment (paid within 30 days of completion)*	$2,500

*Most experts recommend withholding 10 percent of the project's cost until after completion, to ensure that the contractor will return to fix problems.

Weekly meetings.
Before the project begins, schedule a meeting with the contractor and the project manager to discuss details including the master schedule, work hours, safety, and daily cleanup. Set a time for a regular weekly meeting to discuss any persistent problems or issues that arise during construction.

Project documents.
File all documents relating to the project, including the plans, the master schedule, change orders, and warranties or manuals for appliances, fixtures, and systems. The documents should be accessible to you, the contractor, and the project manager.

Communications protocol.
Homeowners often complain that they can't reach a contractor who doesn't show up for work. To avoid this problem, compile a list of telephone, fax, pager, and cell phone numbers for every essential person on the project—yourself included—at the first project meeting. Give everyone a copy and post one at the house. Make sure the contractor understands that you expect to be informed of changes in the work schedule.

A safe and secure job site.
Make sure that you and your contractor agree on safety issues, on-the-job conduct (no alcohol, for example), storage, cleanup of building materials, and disposal of hazardous substances. Some states require contractors to hold regular safety meetings with workers. Know the rules and abide by them for your own safety.

A clean finish.
A working relationship can quickly deteriorate when a contractor doesn't clean up post-construction mess. Work areas should be picked up daily and cleaned when the project is finished. You may want to include a provision for professional janitorial services in the contract.