Part 7: Signing the Contract

You’re finally there…ready to sign on the dotted line. Contractors approach this process in their own way, but there are basic elements that should be in any contract you execute.

The contract should contain the following:

• All details of construction, such as demolition, excavation details and framing, just as the project will be built
• The elements of the design, including the materials, the type of installation and any accessories that pertain
• The estimated timeline of the project
• The final price, optional items and how the project will be paid for, including a payment schedule
• The methods of installation, as well as acceptable industry standards
• The contact person(s) should be clearly established, as well as a list of all subcontractors who will be working on the project or vendors who will be providing materials to the jobsite
• The warranty for all materials and labor
• Items that have been detailed in the construction documents, for instance, a brick patio set on sand versus poured concrete

Expect to see different pricing methodologies. Some remodelers will present their contracts in a “cost-plus” format, but more often they’ll be summarized by category and line items, with allowances identified and defined. Take your time to thoroughly read and understand all the elements of your contract and don’t be afraid to get clarification and ask for revisions where appropriate.