Working with a Contractor

Managing the Relationship with Your Contractor

Montecito realty owners often give contractors a bad rap. While undoubtedly there are some rotten eggs, many contractors are professional and highly competent. However, as a Montecito realty owner, it is important to know how to deal with common issues that arise when working with a contractor.

Your first step is finding a reliable contractor. Newspaper ads can be a good place to start. References and referrals from Montecito realty business associations and your local chamber of commerce can also build credibility. After you have selected a contractor, your next logical step is to have an initial project meeting. Your Montecito realty is a major purchase and you want the construction to go smoothly.

Your first meeting can go a long way in smoothing the Montecito realty improvement process. You should cover such topics as work schedule, payment, and terms, if contractual obligations are not met. The contractor should create a legal document encompassing all of the terms discussed.

You need to specify expectations clearly. A good contractor will take the time to explain the Montecito realty project thoroughly and schedule weekly meetings to update you on the progress of the work. Issues such as job safety, punctuality, employee conduct and clean- up protocol should also be addressed. Take the time to ask questions and make sure your contractor addresses them to your satisfaction. After all, it is your Montecito realty and money at stake.

For example, don’t assume your contractor will begin work at 9 a.m. because he says so. Punctuality and adherence to a schedule must be stipulated in your contract. If these terms are not clearly indicated, you may not have grounds for terminating your relationship with the contractor if they are not met.

Working with a contractor needn’t be a hassle. Opening the lines of communication and keeping them open can result in a satisfying and fruitful relationship for both parties, and leave you with a sense of satisfaction that your Montecito realty project was completed properly and on time.