How Your Contractor Tells Time
How your contractor tells or keeps track of time can be a huge factor in the success or at least the timeliness of whatever project you have hired them for. It might seem a silly concept to ask a contractor exactly “how” they tell time, but getting a clear understanding of how they track the time on the job can save you a headache later in the game.
Questions or concepts to consider when hiring a contractor:
How does he/she track the comings and goings of employees, assistants, and other workers?
For example, do they have some sort of time sheet or other tracking information to keep up with how much time is spent on each job?
Does your contractor have a projected plan/schedule of the days and times he or she will be at your home working?
This information will not only help you get an idea of how long a project may take, but it will also give you a heads up as far as how much your own life will be uprooted as people come in and out of your home.
Does he or she have a set outline of the projected start and end dates for the project?
A good estimate should always be included in your contract. Keep in mind that sometimes more time could be needed to ensure the best outcome, but a rough idea is necessary.
If you are not currently living at the place being worked on, how will you know when they are there working and how much time they are spending on your project?
You want to be sure that your project is being completed in a timely manner, after all, and progress updates are always helpful.
Does your contractor have any other major projects occupying his or her time at the same time they are working on your project?
If so, how will they effectively split time between the two projects? This is important because you do not want your contractor to be distracted or overworked in such a way that will affect the outcome and timeliness of your own project.
Do you understand the timing and other important factors of your project?
The timing of a renovation or other home improvement project can often vary. There are many factors that can affect the timing of a project, including problems that may push out a deadline or time estimate. These factors can really affect how well your contractor can estimate a good end date for your project.
Some factors that can affect the timing of a project are:
Weather and Other “Acts of God”
Issues with Getting Supplies
Other Workers or Specialists
Accidents
Other Unforeseen Events
Additions Made by You
There are many factors to consider when deciding how quickly a project should be completed, or how to measure the timing of a project. Discuss these issues with your contractor before hiring them, and make sure that some guidelines for timing are included in your contract. You need to know how your contractor tracks time, their estimate for the timing of your project, and what they intend to do in the event of a delay.
