The Biggest Home Renovation Mistakes According to General Contractors
One small mistake is all it takes and your home improvement project can go over budget. If you want to prevent renovation from eating up your savings, avoid these serious mistakes before starting construction.
In a recent survey, Consumer Reports spoke with 300 general contractors to find out what is breaking people’s budgets when they renovate their homes. This video from YouTube channel Consumer Reports lists some of the worst mistakes, along with some tips to help you avoid them:
- Changing Your Opinion After Work Starts: 59% of contractors surveyed said changing plans during construction is the biggest and most costly mistake people make when renovating. Think over every little thing before you start.
- Hiring a contractor who doesn’t have a license or bonds: Accredited contractors are better at keeping costs in check when renovations are out of budget and are legally required to guarantee their work. An unlicensed contractor pays the bond if things go wrong.
- Lack of Pre-Inspection: Consumer Reports data show that most of the unauthorized budgets are due to unknown structural damage, hidden mold, or unresolved electrical issues that existed prior to the start of the renovation. A preliminary check can find them ahead of time so you can budget for such issues more realistic.
The Consumer Reports study also found that most contractors are at least partially willing to bargain prices, and many of them will offer discounts to loyal customers. So if you’re looking to save some money, don’t be afraid to ask.