Project fit
1. Fit and Existing Conditions
The first discussion covers the address, rooms involved, current condition, intended use, and priorities. Photos, dimensions, moisture history, utility locations, and known constraints help determine the right next step.
- 01
Walk the space and define the job it needs to do.
- 02
Document existing conditions, approvals, and constraints.
- 03
Align scope, selections, sequencing, and communication.
- 04
Coordinate construction, required inspections, finishes, and the final walkthrough.
Defined scope
2. Scope Before Selections
Define what changes, what remains, which trades are involved, and which items are allowances or homeowner selections. A beautiful finish list cannot correct an unclear construction scope.
Decisions and approvals
3. Decisions, Approvals, and Schedule
Confirm decision deadlines, permit responsibility, access, work zones, ordering dependencies, and how updates or change requests are documented. Exact timing is project-specific and should not be promised before these variables are understood.
Completion
4. Build, Review, and Closeout
Construction follows the agreed scope, with questions and changes captured in writing. The final phase reviews completed work, outstanding items, care information, and any documented closeout materials included in the agreement.
Questions homeowners ask
What should be settled before work begins.
When do material selections happen?
The sequence depends on lead times and the work involved. Items that affect rough framing, plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, or layout generally need decisions earlier than paint and decorative hardware.
How are changes handled after work starts?
The project agreement should explain how changed conditions or owner-requested changes are described, priced, approved, and added to the schedule. Ask for that process before authorizing construction.
Who confirms permit requirements?
The correct local building authority determines requirements. The project scope should identify who prepares documents, submits applications, schedules inspections, and responds to corrections.
How are changes documented during a renovation?
A useful change record identifies the requested work, affected scope, price and schedule consequences, selection information, and approval before dependent work proceeds.
What should be planned for an occupied-home renovation?
Discuss access, protection, dust control, working hours, temporary utilities, pets, children, material storage, daily cleanup, and which rooms must remain usable during each phase.