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Before signing a contract, read it carefully. Are you satisfied with the description of the work to be done? Does the payment schedule include holdbacks? Are the responsibilities of the renovaâ€" Even the simplest of jobs should be outlined in writing â€" the contract is the basis of underâ€" standing between you and your renovator. If you accept the renovator‘s offer, it‘s time to write up the contract. The GTHBA has develâ€" oped at Standard Renovation Contract which is available to all GTHBA members. Don‘t automatically take the lowest bid, unless you are certain that the renovator has properly understood what you want. Sometimes low bids turn out to be the most expensive in the end. Don‘t omit this step just because you are too busy or "they seem like the right person for the job." Call the GTHBA, previous clients, the bank and the building supply store to ensure that you are, in fact, making the right choice. ther. Recipe for a successful renovation (Continued from page 10) It is always a good idea to let your neighbors know that you are going to be renovating â€" what you are planning to do and how long the work will be going on. The crew needs access to washroom facilities, telephones, water and electricity. Decide which areas of the house are off limits. In major renovations, can work be done in stages so you always have some liveable space? Discuss your expectations of the work crew and determine the work environment. For instance, will the water be turned off for any length of time? Do you need to set up a tempoâ€" rary kitchen elsewhere in the house? Careful planning can greatly minimize inconvenience of living in the midst of renovation. Talk to your renovator about the schedule of work to be done and how your daily routine might be affected. the renovation tor clearly spelled out? If someâ€" thing is not in the contract, then it‘s your responsibility. Ask your lawyer to examine the contract, before you sign it. P will li rin a cnnd working Once work is underway, changes should be kept to a minâ€" imum. The details of your proâ€" ject, described in the contract, down to the finishing touches, forms the basis of both the price and the scheduling of your job. Changes could affect both signifâ€" icantly. However, your renovator wants you to be satisfied with the final result, and will attempt to accommodate any alteration in plans, as long as you accept a possible delay in completion and/or a change in price. Be prepar ni h choices Expect a brief report on the progress of your job at regular intervals, if not every evening. Be available to make decisions when they are needed so work is not held up. Don‘t hesitate to bring your concerns to the attenâ€" tion of the renovator. Renovators and homeowners agree that a good working relaâ€" tionship is a vital ingredient in successful renovation projects. Mutual trust is essential. Keep lines of communication open at all times. relationship first Research, good planning, a professional work crew and open *Minimum 2 rooms, max. 200 sq. ft. per room No harsh chemicals, soap or detergents Patented heat process kills up to 92% of existing bacteria Dry for walking within 7 hours Add years to your carpet life Furniture and air duct cleaning also available Estimates and work guaranteed Same day service available WE DO NOT TELEPHONE SOLICIT communication and trust â€" a recipe for renovation that you will enjoy for years to come! 332â€"6722 561â€"7115 Area Carpets Duct Cleaning Gives New Life to Carpets and Upholstery