Although every project is different, we've heard some common questions over the years. If you have additional questions, just contact us and we'll be happy to answer them for you.
Q: Will the project be within my budget?
A: Your project cost is based on a detailed estimate, following the initial meeting and review of your specific project. The estimate will include a list of materials, "allowance items" if specific items have not yet been selected, permits if necessary, and labor costs. Before your meeting, consider what your budget is, taking into account the styles and products you like. Communication is essential to make sure the project is within your budget. Remember that changes do occur in almost every project and can affect your final billing.
Q: Can I expect the job to be completed in the allotted time?
A: The contract will include a start and completion date. If changes or unforeseen situations arise during the course of the project that require more time, this may affect the completion date. We typically work one project at a time to see that it is completed on time, to the customer's satisfaction, and that you get the attention you deserve.
Q: Construction projects are messy and stressful. What can I do to make the job run smoothly?
A: If you are having a major remodeling project done, the contractor as well as employees and sub-contractors may be in your home for weeks. Advantage Services is known to be the cleanest in the business. The job is left broom-clean each work day and construction debris is removed on a regular basis. You can help by doing a few simple things:
- Keep your driveway clear for construction vehicles and deliveries
- Allow space in the garage for staging of materials and tools
- Remove personal items from the work areas, such as pictures and breakables
- Cover furniture with blankets or drop cloths if the project involves a lot of dust and debris
Q: What happens if I want to change something?
A: You might change your mind during the building or remodeling process as you start to get a better visualization during actual construction. Changes are a major source of misunderstanding and cost overruns; therefore, we believe it is essential that these are put in writing, as amendments to the contract (change orders).
Q: What are your working hours?
A: Our work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; occasionally we start as early as 7:30 a.m. and we sometimes work on Saturdays. If you need to meet or have questions outside of our regular working hours, we can make arrangements for an on-site meeting or after-hours phone call.
Q: Where do we go to make our selections for materials, appliances, etc?
A: It is helpful to find pictures of styles and products that you like and write down brand names and models. We can help you in your selections and direct you to the appropriate showrooms with the widest selections available.
Q: What certification do you have and what warranties do you offer?
A: We have been licensed with the Construction Contractors Board since 1978 as a General Contractor All Structures. We have liability insurance and workman's compensation insurance coverage for all employees. There is a two year warranty on our workmanship and materials.
Q: How do I know that I have chosen the right contractor/company for my project?
A: We are known for building a rapport with our clients and giving them confidence in our experience and ideas; we make sure clients know that we care about their concerns. The initial meeting will include viewing a portfolio of completed projects and a list of references; later we provide the detailed estimate.
We are a General Contractor - a design/build firm focusing on new home construction, residential remodeling and additions. If you prefer to be your own general contractor, you may not find us to be price-competitive. Our prices reflect our full range of services, plus our level of experience, expertise, warranty, customer satisfaction, and thorough project development.
Q:Who will be doing the actual work on my project?
A: Advantage Services owner, Jeff Lightfoot, has a hands-on philosophy about each project and does a lot of the work himself, along with other employees to help as needed. Sub-contractors are retained for specific trades such as plumbing and electrical.
Some ways to avoid problems with your project
- Check out your contractor including licenses, insurance, references, and claim history.
- Be sure that you are comfortable with the contractor's experience and expertise. You should also feel that you are able to communicate effectively with the contractor before proceeding on any project.
- Use a written contract and written change orders, making sure that they are concise and detailed. Make sure that you receive a copy of Information Notice to Owner About Construction Liens.
- If permits are necessary, make sure that the required permits are obtained. Usually the contractor does this because he knows what permits are required. Ultimately, however, the homeowner is responsible for making sure that the required permits are obtained and a final inspection is done when the work is completed.
- Do not pay 100% of the project cost up front. Legitimate contractors do require, and are entitled to, a sizeable down payment and progress payments during the project, with the final payment due upon completion.
- Communicate. Talking to the contractor before and during the project is essential. Many disputes happen because people fail to communicate at every step of the project. If in doubt . . . talk it out. Ask lots of questions before the job starts . . . this will prevent problems later.
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