News Releases

MILWAUKEE/NARI MEMBERS OFFER TIPS TO ENSURE A SUCCESSFUL REMODELING PROJECT
April 21, 2010

MILWAUKEE, WI – Spring showers not only bring summer flowers, it traditionally signals the time of year when homeowners begin planning those improvement projects that renew and refresh their surroundings. In fact, May through September is designated Home Improvement Time by “Chase’s Calendar of Events.” And according to a survey in remodelormove.com, the number of homeowners nationwide who say they are “excited” about remodeling is at an all-time high of 54 percent.

Homeowners also are motivated by current lending interest rates – still among the historically lowest. Savvy homeowners know that investing in their home now not only makes sense because it increases its value, but it also means they get to enjoy their “investment” every day.

Before starting any remodeling project, the Milwaukee/NARI Home Improvement Council, Inc., the area's leading home improvement and remodeling industry resource for more than 48 years, offers the following tips.

Pre-plan: Before calling the contractor, know what you want the project to include. Keep a folder with photos and ideas of what you would like to see in the space. List your likes and dislikes and then compile a features needed and a features wish list. This will help the contractor facilitate the design process.
Selecting a Contractor: This is by far the most important step in a successful remodeling project. When selecting a contractor, choose one who is insured, meets the state's licensing requirements, and is a member of a professional trade association such as NARI. Ask for references and then follow-up on them. Ask the contractor how much experience he has in a particular area. Someone who is great at siding and windows may not be best suited for remodeling a bathroom.
Budget: A pre-determined budget is necessary for the contractor to make the right recommendations. A reputable, professional contractor will be able to plan a design and offer advice that fits within your budget parameters.
Contract: Before work begins, have the signed contract. It should detail the project scope, start and (approximate) completion dates, payment schedule, product types, and responsibilities of the contractor and any subcontractors. It should also include provisions for changes in work orders, warranties, and alternative dispute resolution should difficulties arise.
Communicate: Ask your contractor how communication will be handled throughout the project. You and your project manager should be having update meetings on at least a weekly basis to discuss how the project is moving along and to head off any potential problems. As a homeowner, you need to know if something unforeseen is causing a delay. The project manager needs to know if you are dissatisfied with something so the situation can be resolved. Knowing that communications are regularly scheduled lessens anxiety and makes it easier to get through the process.
Be prepared: No matter how fastidious your project crew is, remodeling will create disruption, dust, and disorder. Consider that you may be ordering take out and spending more time outside of your home than in it. Your project manager should alert you to times when electrical or plumbing may be turned off so you can plan your contingencies.
Expect the Unexpected: Many things can go askew during a remodel, particularly with older homes. Once a wall is opened up, a contractor may find a tangled nest of wires, mold or mildew, or rotting wood. Stay calm and flexible. A professional contractor will try to remedy the situation as efficiently as possible to keep within the project timeline.
Go Green and Get a Tax Credit: The American Recovery and Investment Act of 2009 provides incentives to undertake energy efficient repairs and remodeling. The credit is up to 30 percent of the amount spent with a $1,500 cap. To be eligible for the tax credit, the products must have the Manufacturer Certification Statement or Energy Star Labels. Make sure you keep all documents and receipts.
Have a Resource: Visit www.milwaukeenari.org or call Milwaukee/NARI at (414) 771-4071 to find a NARI contractor in your area. This site allows you to locate local contractors by category, from basements to attics, mechanicals, landscaping, windows and siding, and more.

The Milwaukee/NARI Home Improvement Council was chartered in July 1961, as a Chapter of the National Home Improvement Council. In May of 1982, the National Home Improvement Council merged with the National Remodelers Association to form NARI - the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

The Council's goals of encouraging ethical conduct, professionalism, and sound business practices in the remodeling industry have led to the remodeling industry's growth and made NARI a recognized authority in that industry. With over 900 members, the Milwaukee Chapter is the nation's largest.

For more information or to receive a free copy of an annual membership roster listing all members alphabetically and by category, and the booklet, “Milwaukee/NARI's Remodeling Guide,” call (414) 771-4071 or visit the Council’s Web site at www.milwaukeenari.org.