The primary source of tension between clients and contractors is precisely this issue of bringing someone else’s concept to life. For example, one party desires a remodelled master bathroom with a sunken marble tub and a mile-wide vanity, while the other can make it a reality. Due to the precarious nature of such collaborations, it would be imprudent for clients to engage contractors without knowing what to expect after signing the dotted line.
Consider the following for a preview of what to expect from a renovation contractor in Singapore and when.
Subcontractors Determine the Quality of Contractors
Contractors will hire various subcontractors to complete the work, depending on the scope of the undertaking. For instance, if a client remodels a bathroom, a general contractor may hire a plumber, an electrician, and a countertop installer as subcontractors. With so many cooks in the kitchen, the ultimate dish will only be as excellent as the contributions of each individual.
In light of this, clients should discuss with their contractors the aspects of the project that subcontractors will handle. The client should then investigate the subcontractors designated for the project and confirm their certification, expertise, and service quality. If any red flags arise during the course of the procedure, they can discuss the matter with their contractors.
Contractors Require Details
Contractors anticipate that clients will know precisely what they want. The contractor is responsible for making this concept a reality, not filling in the spaces. Clients must provide specific, detailed requests; otherwise, the final product will not correspond to the initial concept. Smart clients will educate themselves on the general flow of similar construction or remodelling projects, be able to understand blueprints and communicate their requirements to the contractor, project manager, and subcontractors with clarity.
Be Ready to Meet Regularly
To have a positive experience working with a contractor, communication is essential. If clients want to be able to contact their contractors at any time, contractors must be equally accessible. To establish a clear communication channel, clients should schedule regular in-person meetings at the outset of initiatives. Thus, they will be able to inspect progress and identify any potential errors early in the construction phase.
However, clients should remember that routine meetings should not devolve into micromanagement sessions. Contractors are hired for their expertise and should be permitted to utilise it while maintaining close customer contact.
Contractors Cannot Perform Every Task
A Singapore renovation or building endeavour is a collaboration between the client and the contractor. In the same way that contractors require employees and subcontractors to help install tile, load cement, sand crown moulding, etc., they also rely on clients to contribute. They are responsible for investigating any local regulations that may hinder construction or require special permits to break ground.
The project site should also be prepared for the staff, whether that entails removing the contents of a kitchen that will be remodelled or clearing the area for an in-ground pool. Depending on the project, the duration of the customer-contractor relationship can be measured in months. Therefore, consumers must provide a contractor with a firm foundation of planning and organisation.
