When starting a home remodeling project or building a new home you will have a lot of questions. It is important to get the right answers, be well informed, and feel comfortable with your contractor. When you have that comfort and knowledge it will lead to a better finished project and a more enjoyable experience overall.
We encourage clients to ask questions starting at our first introduction meeting through to the end of your project. We are always available after the project is complete to answer “how-to questions” or help with any inquiries that arise while living in your new home.
Have a question that isn't on the list below?
Call us at 1-978-663-8445, if there is no answer please leave a message, or email Brad@chaffeecarpentry.com
Questions you will find on this page:
Click on a question below to jump to it’s answer
- How long have you been in business?
- How should we start the remodeling process?
- How do you communicate with your customers? How often and by what method?
- Will you take care of all the necessary permits and inspections?
- Are you licensed?
- Are you insured? Can you show me proof of insurance?
- Where can I see pictures of your past works?
- Is there a difference between an estimate and a proposal?
- What is a design-build contractor and what are the advantages versus using an architect?
- What kind of service should I expect before, during, and after my project?
- How can I make sure my remodeling project is finished on time and within my budget?
- What documents will I need to start my project?
- How long have you been in business?
- How should we start the remodeling process?
- How do you communicate with your customers? How often and by what method?
- Will you take care of all the necessary permits and inspections?
- Are you licensed?
- Are you insured? Can you show me proof of insurance?
- Where can I see pictures of your past works?
- Is there a difference between an estimate and a proposal?
- What is a design-build contractor and what are the advantages versus using an architect?
- What kind of service should I expect before, during, and after my project?
- How can I make sure my remodeling project is finished on time and within my budget?
- What documents will I need to start my project?
How long have you been in business?
Chaffee Carpentry, Inc has been in business for over 30 years, providing the highest quality remodeling and home building services to the residents of the Burlington area. The past 30+ years have taught us a lot about working with our customers and providing them with the highest quality craftsmanship and the best customer service. To learn more about our reputation please see our testimonials from previous customers.
How should we start the remodeling process?
You should establish a list of goals for your remodeling project; your “wants” and “needs”. Asking yourself questions like: “What do I want from my remodel?” or “What are my priorities?” Pictures of your desired results from websites or magazines are always helpful in the design phase.
Contact contractors and discuss how they can help you meet these goals. Interview several contractors, compare the approximate costs, secure your financing and decide who will be best for you to work with.
How do you communicate with your customers? How often and by what method?
For most of our projects, we will communicate with our customers in person. Appointments can be made through our office. We try to follow up with our customers daily before leaving the job site. If this is not possible, we will follow up with an email detailing what has been completed and what is expected to be accomplished in the following days. Our foreman can be reached during business hours for questions.
We ask that any major changes be requested by email to make sure both the customer and the builder and/or subcontractor are aware of all changes to be made in advance of ordering materials or work to be performed.
Will you take care of all the necessary permits and inspections?
Most remodeling projects require permits. During your planing process it would be beneficial to contact your local building department to understand their requirements for your project. This is important if the project that you are planning will extend your home beyond its original foundation. Knowing your town’s setback requirements is helpful to ensure that your project stays within the town’s zoning and building setbacks for your lot.
Once we have signed a proposal and agreed on a starting date, Chaffee Carpentry, Inc. will pull all necessary permits and oversee all inspections.
Are you licensed?
Chaffee Carpentry, Inc. is licensed. We hold a current unrestricted builder’s license.
Our Home Improvement Contractors License # HIC 100788.
Are you insured? Can you show me proof of insurance?
Yes, Chaffee Carpentry, Inc. is insured, and we can provide our insurance information for any customer who wished to review the documentation.
Where can I see pictures of your past works?
We have several of our newest custom homes and remodel work in our gallery on this website.
Is there a difference between an estimate and a proposal?
An estimate is an amount that a contractor estimates a job will cost, which typically includes some guesswork for unknown costs. An estimate is usually based on your list of “wants” and maybe some preliminary drawings.
Once a full set of architectural/building design plans are complete a more accurate job cost can be done, and a proposal written up. The proposal will include the cost for plans, materials, and all subcontractors needed to complete your project and a payment schedule that follows as items are completed at each step of the job.
What is a design-build contractor and what are the advantages versus using an architect?
Architects produce building plans which are given to a contractor to bid and execute.
A design/build contractor makes designs in-house and can help guide you through the process, then execute your plans.
Design and build contractors streamline the service between the design and construction process. This may sometimes also be more cost-effective. Chaffee Carpentry, Inc has built many successful projects working both with customers’ architects and our own designer.
What kind of service should I expect before, during, and after my project?
Prior to our first day at your home we will review the steps necessary to begin your project. Throughout the process we will take the utmost care of your property and communicate with you every step of the way. Once we have completed the project the job site will be left clean.
How can I make sure my remodeling project is finished on time and within my budget?
Open communication with our contractor throughout the project is very important. We will keep you up-to-date on scheduling and delivery timelines and changes. Being upfront and honest about your needs, timeline constraints, and budget will help keep your project on schedule.
When it comes to your budget, it is helpful to know the factors that can influence the cost of your renovations. If you have concerns, always discuss with your contractor before the job starts and communicate your needs frequently during the project when making major changes to the original plans to keep within the scope of your budget.
What documents will I need to start my project?
A clear, written proposal and a full set of construction drawings for the building process are necessary for successful project completion. These documents along with your plot plan, will help your contractor provide you with a thorough proposal and timeline for your project.
At Chaffee Carpentry, Inc. we want you to have the best home remodel experience possible. Open communication between the client and builder will help the process go smoothly from start to finish. We encourage you to call us with any questions during the renovation process. Please contact us to discuss your project or call our office today.