How long to start basement renovations?

8/17/2017 at 10:32:24 PM

Typical...for a good contractor, absolutely! I try to book anywhere from 3-6 months in advance. This is my / our job security as self employed businessmen. I have 3 kids, multiple cars, house, several expenses etc...I can't book one project at a time and hope to survive. If a contractor has several labourers / employees, he may be able to start your project earlier. While trying to book in advance, I also run 2-3 projects simultaneously. So...I would say that contractor is in high demand, is very conscious of his schedule as it relates to his income (for job security) and busy as heck...which is a good thing! Remember...a busy contractor is likely a good contractor. A contractor on demand...consider it a red flag in my opinion.

8/17/2017 at 10:43:16 PM

At this time of year three months is actually really good. Any other good contractor I've talked with this summer is basically booked until or beyond the new year now.

8/17/2017 at 10:59:04 PM

Generally the good contractors are busy, you may get lucky and sons one can fit you in. But beware because if there fitting you in they maybe doing other jobs and be bouncing back and forth. That's not what I do but it happens to lots of people. Make sure you get deadlines in a contract and specifics in writing.

Good luck,

James

8/17/2017 at 11:00:19 PM

Hi,

Read yr statement. U cant judge the profession by an individual. It totally depends how busy he is or how big his crew is.

8/17/2017 at 11:44:04 PM

3 months or longer is typical, depending on the size of the project. As a smaller contractor I try to book at least 2 months ahead, with a free day or two for the smaller projects that pop up.

8/18/2017 at 1:02:22 AM

I guess it depends on the city and market. I would move on to the next if i was you. I would not wait more than 2-3 weeks. There are many contractors out there. I hope this helpes

8/18/2017 at 9:54:24 AM

Yes, especially this time of year when every client wants the work done immediately. This is why we suggest scheduling for late fall or mid winter, inside jobs can be done when outside projects are not being planned.

8/21/2017 at 9:02:47 AM

Good contractors are always busy. This is certainly correct, but it may also be that the contractor is trying to fill up the winter schedule as well.

8/22/2017 at 8:28:17 AM

Yes for busy contractors it's always booked for few months ahead especially at the season time

8/22/2017 at 6:01:01 PM

Three months is standard for a good contractor, with several years of experience; and in fact at this time of the year that's pretty good!

Not only does the contractor have to ensure his availability, but he also has to co-ordinate availability of any licensed trades required for the job (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). Depending on the complexity of your renovation project, your contractor might also recommend an Engineer's report prior to moving onto the design phase.

Equally important in the planning of a large renovation is the design , and the material selection, so that your renovation proceeds as smoothly as possible.

The three-month period will allow you time to obtain building permits that may be required,solidify design plans with your contractor, and purchase any material you might be responsible for supplying.