When you start a home remodel in Connecticut, asking the right remodeling questions and getting the right answers is crucial. Having good information at the outset will allow you to pick the right contractor, take on the right project, and budget properly. Ultimately, the more you know when you begin your residential remodeling project, the better.
We encourage all our customers to ask smart questions before beginning their home construction project. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions from Litchfield Builder customers. To dive deeper into planning your home renovation project in Connecticut, be sure to use our home remodel checklist.
How long have you been in business?
Litchfield Builders has been in business for over 20 years, delivering high-quality construction and remodeling services to residents and commercial businesses of the New Haven area. In the last two decades, we've learned a lot about providing good customer service and quality craftsmanship. To find out more about our reputation in the community, take a look at our customer testimonials and record of business awards.
How do I start the remodeling process?
Start by establishing goals for your remodel. Know the answers to questions like, "What do I want from my remodel? What should my priorities be?" Once you've answered these questions for yourself, contact CT contractors to discuss your specific plans and needs for your space. Litchfield Builders recommends contacting at least three contractors for major home improvement projects.
Interview each contractor before making your decision. Once you've chosen a professional and know an approximate cost, then it's time to secure financing. For more information on this topic, view our home remodel checklist for a more thorough list of questions you should answer before your next remodeling project.
How do you communicate with your customers? How often and by what method?
For large projects, Litchfield Builders positions a working foreman on site and a dedicated manager off site. The working foreman serves as the primary means of communication with the customer while work is being done on site. The working foreman is at the home throughout the renovation process.
Are you licensed?
Litchfield Builders is a licensed contractor in the state of Connecticut. You can find our license numbers below:
- #HIC.0558048
- #MCO.0901419
- #NHC.0000077
- Demo Lic. #1261
It's always a wise idea to ensure your contractor's license is active before signing a contract. You can check our license or any other CT contractor's license on the State of Connecticut website at https://www.elicense.ct.gov/Lookup/LicenseLookup.aspx
Will you take care of all the necessary permits and inspections?
Most remodeling projects in Connecticut require permits. Seeking out these permits at the beginning of the process can save you time and may prevent your project from stalling. This is especially true if the project that you are about to begin will extend your home beyond its original foundation.
You can find out more information by talking to a zoning or building official in your area. If you haven't chosen a contractor, these officials can also give good references for contractors in your area.
Is there a difference between an estimate and a proposal?
An estimate is an amount that a contractor estimates a job will cost. Estimates typically include a guess for unknown costs. A proposal is a document written up during the competitive process to win a job. Proposals include amounts bid from subcontractors, the cost of materials, and so on.
Are you insured? Can you show me your proof of insurance?
Yes, Litchfield Builders is insured, and we can produce our insurance information for any consumer who wishes to review the documentation. Please ask to see this information during the meeting with our contractor.
What is a design-build contractor, and what are the advantages versus using an architect?
Architects produce building plans which are then given to contractors for execution. Design-build contractors make designs in-house, then execute the plans accordingly. The big difference between these two options is that design-build firms provide streamlined service between the design and construction process.
Where can I see pictures of your past works?
Look at our residential and commercial projects in our portfolio, where you can see some of our most successful projects. If you'd like to see photographs of projects similar to your own, ask us during our initial consultation.
What kind of service should I expect before, during and after my project?
Before your project begins, we'll ensure that your belongings are safely out of the way. We'll take the utmost care of your property during the completion of your project, and maintain good communication with you throughout the renovation. Once the project is over, we'll stay until everything has been cleaned up.
What's the best time of year to complete my project?
Connecticut weather can make some home improvement projects a challenge, but overall, most home improvement projects can be performed at most times of the year, with proper planning and flexibility.
Keep in mind that summer is one of the busiest seasons for contractors, so if you're determined to get your project finished by the end of the summer, start contacting contractors early to get started.
How can I make sure my remodeling project is finished on time and on budget?
Maintaining good communication with the contractor throughout the project is critical. Your CT contractor will keep you apprised of the timeline throughout, but it's also important to tell your contractor about your budget at the outset. Being honest and upfront about your needs, time constraints and budget constraints will help keep your project on task.
When it comes to controlling the price of your renovation, it's helpful to understand the factors that influence the cost. Location, materials cost, and timing all can affect the price of your remodel. If you're on a tight budget, discuss this with your contractor at the beginning of your project. Your contractor can make suggestions that will help you lower costs and work within your budget.
How soon can you start working on my project once we've had the initial consultation?
How long it takes to start working on your project after the initial consultation depends on a number of factors, including project scope, whether your project will require drawings, how quickly it takes for the contract to be signed, and how busy the construction season is.
Some projects are performed in a matter of weeks, others take a month or more before work can begin. If you're on a short timeline for getting your project completed, contact your Connecticut contractor as soon as possible.
What can I expect to see in the contract?
Connecticut law requires that every home improvement project includes a contract that has been signed and dated. Some things that are required to be in your contract include the name and address of the contractor, CT registration number, the date you can cancel the transaction (3 days after signing the contract), work start date and completion date, price, payment schedule and itemized list of materials.
Litchfield Builders is known for producing very thorough contracts. These important documents protect clients and ensure that our customers know what to expect during the course of their home improvement project.
What documents will I need to start the project?
Regardless of the nature or size of the work, good documentation is paramount to the success of any project. Whether it be a clear, written proposal or a full set of construction drawings, these documents are the road map in the building process and will provide good documentation and details for the work to be completed.
These documents will be combined with your contract, which will be signed before construction begins. In addition, any building permits and information from zoning officers should be provided to your contractor up front.
At Litchfield Builders, we want you to have the best home remodel experience possible. Knowing what to expect will help the process go smoothly from start to finish. If you have remodeling questions, we encourage you to call us at any time during the construction or renovation process. We'll be happy to provide you with answers. For more information, or to get started on a home remodel, contact us today. For more information about choosing a contractor in CT, download our free guide to hiring a home remodeling contractor.
If you’re still deciding what type of remodeling you may need, download our latest checklist to help you through the most important planning stages of your potential project.
