I recently bought a 160-year-old house and knew there were a few things that needed fixing. However, everything has become far more complicated and expensive than I expected, and I'm really struggling with the contractors I've hired. I've had various issues like roofers installing the wrong type of tiles and not cleaning the gutters, decorators who steer me towards dull color choices, kitchen fitters leaving damaged tiles and incomplete work, electricians who did things unsafely, and window makers who didn't follow my specifications. I'm worried I'm the problem here. Is it common to have to ask contractors to redo work? Am I being too hard on them? I don't have a lot of experience with renovations and would appreciate any advice to see if I need to adjust my expectations or if I should really be concerned about the quality of work I'm receiving.
2 Answers
It sounds like you're dealing with a lot, and no, it's not just you! It can be really tough finding good contractors, especially for bigger projects. Make sure you're getting at least three quotes and try not to pick just the cheapest; often, quality work comes at a higher price. It’s also worth noting that some contractors might not have the best reputation or skills, so do a little research beforehand if you can. It might help to have a detailed plan for what you want before you even reach out to them.
Yeah, and sometimes it helps to watch some DIY videos on these issues. Even if you’re not doing it yourself, understanding the basics can make you a more informed customer.
Old homes can be a huge challenge, especially if you're not handy yourself. I’d say it’s pretty normal to encounter issues like this. Many first-time homeowners often find out that the reality of renovations can be a grind – the key is to find reliable people and keep a close eye on the work being done. Consider creating a really detailed list of what you need from each contractor, and maybe find someone who can help you manage these projects as you go along.
Good idea! And don’t hesitate to ask for revisions if something isn't right. You deserve quality work just like anyone else.
Definitely keep the communication flowing! You’re in your right to expect things to be done correctly.
Totally agree! Also, getting a clearer scope of work can help ensure everyone is on the same page from the start.