Home-improvement season is here and many homeowners are considering additions and improvements. Master home builder Steve Gonzalez, author of “Ready . . . Set . . . Build” (Consumer Press, $9.95) offers this preproject checklist.
– Set a realistic budget based on preliminary estimates from contractors.
– Have a preliminary plan drawn to submit to your homeowner’s association for approval.
– Check with your property-tax appraiser for an estimated tax increase for the addition.
– Check with your homeowner’s insurance for an estimated premium increase.
– Visit your building and zoning department to get preliminary approval prior to investing in a full set of plans for the project.
– Shop local product showrooms for specifics on fixtures, cabinets, hardware and other products that will be used in the project.
– Have a completed set of drawings produced by an architect, structural engineer or other qualified draftsperson.
– Solicit bids from a minimum of three contractors. Ask for a list of homeowners and suppliers with whom the contractor has worked previously.
– Check each contractor’s references, license and insurance documents.
– Interview each contractor after receiving their bids.
– Read the contract carefully and be sure you understand every item before signing. Your specifications should become a part of the contract and also should be signed by the contractor.
