[fourcol_three]The walkthrough is perhaps the single most critical step in the hiring process. Given the significance of the investment you are about to make, it is almost like dating someone before deciding whether or not to marry them – except you only are going to go on one date (in most cases).
Many first-time remodeling clients make the mistake of thinking that the walkthrough is just for the contractor: it is an opportunity for them to gauge the scope of the project and provide you with a proposal. Although this is important, it is far from being the most important goal of the walkthrough. The most important thing you can accomplish during a walkthrough is determining whether or not you trust and like the contractor you are about to hire. If the answer to either of these questions is “No,” then you should continue looking.
Secondly, the walkthrough is their first impression of you. It is your opportunity to set your expectations for the project and show the contractor that you are an involved, detail-oriented consumer who demands professionalism.
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Before the walkthrough
We recommend beginning the walkthrough by explaining your vision. Using photographic examples is typically the best way to explain what it is you want to accomplish. Unless you have experience with the process, refrain from discussing how the project will unfold and focus on what you expect the deliverable to be. This way, you set the tone for the entire interaction. The contractor will appreciate your candor and be in a much better position to help during the walkthrough.
[box]Don’t be afraid to let the contractor express their own vision.[/box]
Great contractors are artists: they will be as thrilled with a beautiful deliverable as you will be. They’ve also been doing this for a long time and should have a keen sense for what works and what doesn’t. Showing that you value and respect their opinion is a great way to kick-off the relationship.
Once you’ve communicated your vision, set your logistical requirements by reiterating your overall budget and timeline, which should have been discussed previously. Some contractors will attempt to upsell you during the walkthrough but don’t commit to anything you feel uncomfortable with. If you’re on the fence about any inclusions they might propose, give yourself time to think about it.
Great contractors have a lot of pride in their trade. At the outset of the walkthrough, take the time to understand how they got into the business, how long they’ve been a contractor and how they consider themselves to be different than others. Although they will be biased, you can learn a lot about a contractor from how they talk about their business and their willingness to be honest with you.
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During the walkthrough
During the walkthrough, the contractor will learn about your process and begin formulating a plan for how to execute. During this stage, you should ask questions about their process and the project itself. This is not only a good way to get a feel for their level of expertise but also an opportunity to learn about the project itself.
[box]Most walkthrough’s should last about an hour[/box]
On a fundamental level, all construction and remodeling projects will be broken down into separate components. For example, a “bathroom remodel” can be considered the sum of a “sink replacement,” “plumbing work,” “tile replacement,” “bath replacement,” etc. Try to understand how the prospective contractor is breaking down your project in his or her mind.
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After the walkthrough
Once you’ve examined the job site, you should sit down and discuss their plan for execution. During this conversation, you should also be covering some of the key points that will be included in the contract.
You should gain clarity around how they have structured the project in their mind and agree upon a timeline. Some of the other key points to cover at this stage include:
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- Regulatory challenges – What permits and inspections will be required and who will handle them?
- Materials – What materials will be required and who will be responsible for their selection and acquisition?
- Subcontractors – What subcontractors will be involved (if any) and what is the process for hiring subcontractors?
- Mechanic’s Lien – In many states, anyone who has done significant work to a property has the right to place a mechanic’s lien on it. You should ask about how they handle mechanic’s liens and whether they have ever filed one in the past (and under what circumstances). [/box]
After the walkthrough, you should ask for a non-binding high-level proposal that will contain a general description of work, specifics on the timeline and the cost. Some contractors will send you a contract after the walkthrough but you should clarify that you are meeting with several contractors and will be evaluating several proposals. This will save your contractor the time and energy they might otherwise spend on a contract but also reinforces your position as an empowered consumer. If a contractor insists that you sign a contract after a walkthrough, they are most likely not a contractor you want to hire.
[box]Would you like some help?
BuildZoom can help you connect with the right contractors, get the right bid and eliminate your risk.
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