Scope of work: Description of the project, including locations and
types of material, or brands of products used. Who is responsible for
the trash generated during the work.
Time-frame: Start and completion dates.
Change orders: Procedure and rate structure.
Drawings or sketches: Where needed to clarify estimate.
Permits: Stipulate who is responsible for them.
Pricing: Complete cost of the project and any options listed
separately.
Payment terms: Draws should track material use and work done.
Expiration date: Obviously prices change over time. A quote should
be good for about 60 days, depending on circumstances.
THE SECOND MEEITNG:
Safety concerns:
The job site should be left clean at the end of the day. Boards with
nails sticking out of them are extremely dangerous. If you have
children some special considerations are in order. Doors accessing
work areas should be secured to prevent access by children, especially
if a deck is being replaced. Your children may not understand they
can�t run out on it like normal. All electrical work should be left in a
safe condition. All tools should be stored out of reach. Children
should not be allowed near the work area while work is being
performed.
Access to your home:
Arrange for the contractor to have access during normal working
hours. If you can�t be there you may need to get him a key. Leaving a
key in a hiding spot that is accessed daily is asking for trouble. You
may want to get a cheap lockset for the door you allow access through
and install it for the duration of the work. That way you won�t have to
wonder if a copy was made. The same with an alarm system, set a
different code for him. Your alarm company should be willing to help
with this. If you don�t trust him in your home, consider a different
contractor.
Conduct while in your home:
A contractor is a guest in your home and should be expected to act
accordingly, they should also be treated accordingly. Restroom access
is generally expected, you don�t want the neighbors complaining
about their dead rose bushes. If this is a problem, rent a portable one,
the cost is reasonable. It is not unreasonable to expect guests to wipe
their feet and other such courtesies.
Trash removal:
This should be worked out now. Even a small job will generate a lot
of trash. Some of it you may not be able to stick in your garbage can.
Renting a dumpster may be the best answer. For smaller loads the
contractor can haul it off.
Channels of communication:
Your input may be required during the project. Leave a number where
you can be reached quickly in case of emergency or a decision is
necessary. You should be able to reach the contractor before, during
and after the work. Cell phone rates are not near as expensive as they
were, he should be able to give you his number and should have
voicemail. Pagers lead to phone tag that can be frustrating. Also, listen
and speak carefully, misunderstandings are bad for everyone.
If you have done your homework and feel comfortable with a contractor,
you are ready to sign up to get started. Some form of agreement should be in
place to sum up the details. During the project at least make a note on it
about changes and the costs if no formal procedures are in place. Don�t
hesitate to ask questions at all phases. If you�re not sure, it�s better to ask
than to have to re-do something.
I know this sounds like a lot of work, but the alternative can be even worse.
This advice is based on my experience and yours may differ, there are many
other guides online.
Good luck!