Work Stages:

Demolition:

This is the first stage of the work. Be sure to make room for fixtures that will be removed. If you live in an apartment you may have to haul things to the dump right away. If you live in a house you may want to make room in the back yard or garage. Be sure to allow unobstructed access to the areas needing demolition. Empty cabinets, fridges, shelves if access or removal is necessary. If a contractor is doing the demolition be aware of anything that you want to keep or the contractor may assume that it will go to the dump with the rest which is a typical misunderstanding.

 

Preparation:

This is the stage that all rough in work is done. Alterations of walls, sub floor work, framing, preparation, repairs, stripping, priming for paint, etc. Although some work is hidden by cabinets or dry wall the general rule is that the finished product is only as good as the quality of the foundation. So take extra time to make sure that things are square, level and as smooth as can be expected. Once  work is prepared you will be ready for new materials and fixtures to be installed. Inspect and approve work up to this point. If any work is permitted then the building inspector will have to approve that work.

 

Repairs or rebuilding:
At this stage repair or rebuild anything that you are not changing but want to bring up to building code or the standard of the rest of the project. Inspect and approve work up to this point. If any work is permitted then the building inspector will have to approve that work.

 

Paint:
At this point you can paint all surfaces. Inspect and approve work up to this point.

 

Installation:
Install new fixtures, chrome pieces, appliances, wood work etc. Inspect and approve work up to this point. If any work is permitted then the building inspector will have to approve that work.

 

Finishing:
Apply the finishing touches, caulking, trim, etc…

 

Clean up:
Be aware of the costs in hauling away salvage and the items that can not be dumped like drywall and paint cans. There are additional costs for these items and it must be clarified in the contract who is responsible for the costs.

 

Inspection & quality control:
I suggest that you inspect every stage of the renovation and proceed when you are satisfied with the results. It is much easier to make changes at each stage than it is at the end of the job. Take time to inspect and ask if you are unsure of what it should be. You may want to consult with a local city inspector or building association representative. If any work is permitted then the building inspector will have to approve that work. When the project is complete and you can enjoy your new surrounding. Use each piece of new equipment to ensure that, 1) you know how to work it. 2) It is functioning properly and you are satisfied with the workmanship.

 

Billing/payment:
It is common practice for contractors to ask for 10% of the project up front and to have  installments made at various dates through out the job. Make sure this is clearly stated in the contract. The “Builders Lien Act” (see section 7 for  details) allows you to “Hold back” a percentage of the job costs up to 55 days or more depending on the province or state. The “Hold back” funds are to be held in a “Hold back” or Trust account for more consumer protection.

 

Filing documents:
You may have some products to register and warranty cards to send away. It is important to register for the  purpose that if there is a recall or an upgrade for that product the manufacturers can contact you right away with pertinent information.

Congratulations, you are an efficient and effective project coordinator!