Always get everything in writing. A clear understanding of a written scope eliminates curveballs. That way you have something to fall back on in the event something pops up unexpected.
It is important for the customer to be flexible with any curveballs that are encountered. My company deals with it in a professional way and is very clear and honest in communicating what possible curveballs we may encounter, so as to avoid any surprises if possible.
Quite often during remodeling there are âunforeseenâ problems that usually are discovered once drywall has been removed. Often its mold, rotting wood, cut structural members that need to be repaired, failing beams or sagging joists/rafters that will need to be addressed in addition to the original scope of work. I usually warn the customer about these possibilities prior to the work being performed. If there are âextras,â I will usually present a change order for the repairs and collect that before the project moves forward.
It depends on the curveball. If a client changes the design or scope in the middle of the project, we simply add it in as we go along. If we find something unexpected during a remodel, we immediately stop, explain to the client what was discovered, and discuss options. Once everyone agrees on the course of action, we amend the project and continue.
With clear and concise communication as early as possible with the owner
Communication is the key to resolving any unanticipated issues on a project. Sometimes delays due to the manufacturer, shipper and the weather can occur. Notifying and discussing any of these and other potential issues during the installation process immediately with the homeowner is imperative.
Curveballs could lead to another opportunity so we tackle them head on. If there is an issue with money we do offer payment plans. We like to always work out a good solution with the customer.
Prominence Electric has the can do it attitude. We are great at problem solving and with many years of Electrical experience we confront and solve any and all curveballs.
Communication with the home owner with the clear choices available for further action. Follow this with appropriate change orders and the project is back on track in without skipping a beat.
You need to have a written record of the project; it keeps the job running smooth and there arenât any surprises for anybody. The written agreement should communicate changes to job scope, how these impact cost, when youâre expected to pay (if it adds to the price tag) and any changes to the project completion date, since modifications often push that deadline back.
Being licensed engineers and contractors we come up with a design and plan before building. This helps prevent change orders to our clients, saving them time and money.
Remodels almost always have unforseen costs.
Your bid should include a window for this usually 15% of total project cost.
I would let a customer know all of the possible problems before I got started.
Changes/revisions are a part of a project. I welcome my customersâ input and if that means changing something, lets just keep the lines of communication open and there shouldnât be an issue.
During a remodel you have to expect what is called âdiscovery.â We do not charge for small or quick fix items we discover during a remodel, as long as it doesnât cost too much in time and materials. If we encounter a bigger issue, we talk to the client and work out a fix that will not hold up the project and we follow one simple ruleâŚwork orders have to charged at the same rate as the job or less comparatively. Many contractors use work orders to make money because they have the client in a bind. We never do this and even offer for them to get comparative bids so they are comfortable with any charges.
Although this is not the case with all jobs, they do happen. We at Creavation are very resourceful and creative but we will find the best way to resolve any unexpected items as efficiently as possible as long as it doesnât compromise safety, structural integrity, or sustainability.
Always state on your contract that some unforseen problems may arise and additional costs may occur.
We pride ourselves at Pacific Rim CR LLC as being problem solvers. Curve-balls are a part of the world we have chosen as contractors and for true professionals - they really donât create too much grief. The best way to deal with issues that pop up on a project is to be as absolutely prepared as possible before you start. When something unexpected does arise itâs absolutely critical that the contractor be focused on âsolving the problem at its sourceâ. Temporary solutions usually are not solutions at all. Collectively deciding a best course of action that best benefits the property and the client along with enlisting the help of other experts when needed will usually lead to getting the original project back on track.
Always take in stride. There is always a solution for any problem.
staying on budget & schedule