I always discuss with my clients anything that may come up with a project beforehand and things we might run into. If something unexpected comes up, I like to meet with them in person (or via phone if they’re comfortable with that) and explain the situation and different options on how to accomplish what we need too.
Significant remodels and all new builds will require drawings and specs prepared by a qualified design professional. These drawings along with a good written contract normally will include written conditions and resolutions for most building situations. Having a very specific drawing and contract describing the scope of work and what the responsibilities are for each of the parties will provide a default for most conditions that may come up. Hire quality professionals with a proven track record.
Up front and honest with all unexpected repairs or replacements. Have all contracts signed before any work or money transpires.
We try to find the best solution that is efficient and the least costly to our clients.
Each case is very unique and individual.
Curve balls can be for many reasons:
City inspectors, clients demands or changes, unforeseen conditions after demolition, weather - just to name a few.
Experience and professionalism are key to be able to handle each situation as it comes.
Roy
Follow protocol, codes and instruction.
Projects with curveballs occur when items are either over looked, not included, added or code requirement restrictions. When doing a project have everything thought out prior and stick to the original plan. Having a designer or architect help put your ideas on paper helps " hammer " out the details. This will insure the smoothest operation and keep costs down.
If you are an experienced contractor and know what you are doing permitting issues shouldn’t be a problem at all. If you see an additional cost it must be addressed, a change order must be generated and signed so that both parties are on the same page. In this business you just have to roll with the punches.
Make sure you have change orders. This means another written proposal stating what will be done differently than the original contract and what prices increase or decrease. Ask enough questions so you are on the same page as the contractor.
Your contractor should be staying in touch with you during your project. If not, this should be a red flag and have him explain. Check your contract and see how it is laid out. A lot of jobs incur extra work and should be stated in the contract.
I tend to be flexible with my ideas in order to try and prepare for the unknown. That’s why I like the client to stick with the plan.
First and foremost never panic or over think the problem or situation. Assess the issue with your Pro and explore all options. Make sure your Pro explains the level of seriousness of the issue. Also discuss pros & cons of addressing problem immediately as opposed to when affordable if applicable. If your unforeseen complication is a pressing necessity that needs to be handled immediately, you then need to assess whether or not you have extra funds available to pay out to handle the situation, or whether you’ll need to take from your original budget put forth for completion of the project.
A great measure to practice when having a remodeling project done: Always put aside a contingency budget that is a safety plan strictly to cover these unbearable moments.
In plumbing everything is concealed. A curveball or two during a project is to be expected and we plan for it ahead of time. During our bidding process, we plan time frames accordingly along with pricing set aside for unexpected surprises. Our experience has been by doing so we rarely have to adjust price after a job starts and our bids are still very competitive and seem to be consistently lower then larger companies with high overheads. When the completely unexpected does strike, we prepare a few plans to address the issue immediately and present it to the client so the issue can be addressed properly and efficiently. By keeping the client informed and part of the project we ensure the final product is exactly what is expected and the client doesn’t feel isolated or ignorant to what is happening. Most home owners we work with have never had a project of this size performed and educating them on the process builds confidence in our team, practices, and products.
We use a cloud based project management system for our estimating, materials selections and project scheduling. When unexpected things come up we have a change order process in place. We create a change order, which includes the effect the change will have on the project costs and on the project schedule, and send it to you for approval. No changes are made until the change order is approved by you.
Even with the most detailed plan, something can still go wrong. The most important thing to do is remain calm and work the problem. Communicate the problem to the client immediately, especially if there is a chance for added cost or time to the original agreement. We have a staff of project managers that together can pull resources and contacts along with our manufacturers to have the best possible outcome, usually by the time we call with a curve ball situation we have plan B and C as an option to go over with you.
Change up my stance a little bit and knock it out the park!
Curveballs are a given in every project - being able to roll with the punches, and being flexible enough to be able to manage them is essential. Being knowledgeable in my field allows me to work around those curveballs and still get the project done as I would expect anyone I hired to do work for me to do.
There are two ways we approach the unexpected issues that pop up. If it is our oversight and something we should have caught, we simply take care of it. The client never knows and the solution is applied before it becomes an issue. If it is something we could not have known, we explain the options to our client and let them offer feedback. If additional work is selected, we provide a change order and payment request form to insure we are all clear on the terms. As long as you are honest and upfront, your client will never have an issue. We even explain the possibility of this in our estimation process to insure the client is not blind sided in the event something pops up.
Always explain risks up front, be honest and be forward and your clients will be reasonable.
Good luck!
I consult with the client first to see if there are other acceptable alternatives/changes.
Remodeling is one big curve ball. We have not seen it all yet, but we are getting there
There are alot of variables. Many times minor suprises arise during remodeling projects. Seldom does an experienced contractor encounter a complete surprise. I always warn my clients of any potential problems that may be hidden behind walls, etc… After accessing the issue I discuss with the owner the best way to proceed.