What work to do and what not to do:

You may not want to hire a general contractor or sub contractor if you feel confident that you can do most of the repairs or renovation yourself.

Products have become user friendly with detailed descriptions of how to use it.

You can probably find a “how to” seminar, book or work shop on every aspect of home renovation if you plan things in advance. (This planner is ideal for that)

You can find free advice and support and technical advice through manufacturer’s web sites and most of the major home improvement centers. (Check the resource guide in section 10 of this planner)

With the “Project Planner” you can be sure of a successful job if you take the time necessary for planning and ask when you are not sure. There is a lot of joy in doing a project yourself so I encourage you to seriously consider going for it.

It can save you some money. I stress “can save” because if you screw up once or twice you may have to hire a professional to fix it and then it will have cost you more. You will have gained an experience though!

It was once said awhen a man with money meets up with a man with experience, the man with the experience walks away with the money and the man with the money walks away with the experienceI.

There are many reasons for you to choose hiring a professional to do a part or even all of the project.

You may want to have a professional job done right the first time. You will need to be diligent in applying strategies for choosing a good contractor.

You may not have the time to do it yourself.

You may need to get a professional. Example: if it is highly technical like wiring to your main electrical panel, altering bearing walls or the hooking up of natural gas lines that require a certified professional.

Dangerous jobs like roofing or high exterior repairs are probably best left to the equipped professional.

If you decide to have a contractor do some or all of your project here are some things to consider.

 

Contractor:
The general contractor coordinates all work that you have instructed him to do. After you have described clearly what you want done you should turn the job over to him/her. He will be responsible for proper permits, proper liability insurance for the public and his employees. He should supervise the job through to the end and ensure you are satisfied with the work before he collects his full payment.

 

Sub Contractor:
The sub-trade is a tradesperson such as the plumber or the carpenter. The general contractor sometimes hires a sub-trade which is called a subcontractor at this point. If you choose to hire a plumber and give him a specific task then you are acting as the general contractor and responsible for the above. The tradesperson is only responsible for himself and any helper or employee and his work. You may need to ensure that you have the proper permits and liability for the task at hand. Permits are not that complicated when you are clear on what you are doing and show up at city hall with this planner. They will actually be quite impressed with your organization and preparedness and be happy to permit your project. (See Section 7 Resources for Permits and Licensing)