When you decide that it’s time for a kitchen renovation, it’s important to consider whom you want to hire to get the job done. No matter whom you hire, though, there’s going to be some noise, mess, and a little disorder before the job is completed. By forming a good relationship with the contractor doing the work, though, your renovation should be (for the most part) smooth sailing.

On the first day of the job, make sure you personally meet the person leading your renovation project. Find out if there is anything they need from you, such as access to parking or electrical outlets. Supply them with the names and numbers of places like convenience stores and take-out restaurants in the area. And, since they’ll be working indoors, in your home, offer them the use of your restroom. (That will save the awkward moment when they have to ask you, or conversely, downtime if they need to travel offsite to use facilities.)

After all the design and material decisions have been made, but before the work begins, you’ll want to discuss your needs for your kitchen and your contractor’s needs for the project. Getting everything squared away from the get-go will save on having to go back and do something over again, as well as on frustration all around if the job doesn’t seem to be going as planned. Communication is key!

Also, make the contractor aware of you and your family’s schedule. For instance, if you need your contractor and crew to only work during a designated window of time, let them know – keeping in mind that time restrictions could cause your renovation to take longer. And, if you have some sort of gathering planned, let your contractor know when it is, and what level of function your kitchen will need to have by then.

Getting off to a good start with your contractor and crew is important, but so is continuing communications. Make sure you and the crew feels comfortable discussing any issues or concerns that may arise. A great way to facilitate this is by having a weekly meeting, which keeps the communication flowing. By meeting at a designated time each week, you’ll be able to share progress reports and probably will feel much more comfortable communication should an issue arise. And, it gives your contractor the opportunity to recommend options you might not have considered, as well as explain what will be happening in your home over the next several days.

In every kitchen remodeling contractor’s eyes, there exists an ideal client. Great clients often have their projects completed quicker, with fewer mistakes, and sometimes at a discount. While none of these things are guaranteed, they’re much more likely to happen if you give your contractor a few little incentives along the way:

• Parking: Your contractor and crew will have some heavy equipment in tow. Giving them close access to your home will be helpful and appreciated.
• Java: It’s a nice idea to have some coffee made for your crew in the morning, or to provide everything they need to easily make a fresh pot for themselves.
• Munchies: As a Friday wrap-up or working-weekend treat, have some bagels, donuts or muffins available on occasion for the crew. Or, a simple lunch provides a nice touch. Nothing fancy is necessary – pizza or subs will probably be much appreciated.

Before you get started on your kitchen renovation, you’ll want to talk to an expert. At Fahy Kitchens & Baths, our designers want to help make your kitchen a masterpiece, and make that renovation process as painless as possible. To find out more about how we can help, give us a call at (315) 735-8181 or fax to (315) 735-2829. Fahy Kitchens & Baths is located at 1908 Oriskany Street West in Utica, N.Y. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are appreciated.