11/18/2020
Projects in the Pandemic
This year has created more questions for homeowners when hiring a contractor. With more people working from home, spending more time at home, the laundry lists of home projects keeps growing for many homeowners. Whether it its simply needing to replace a leaky faucet, or deciding it is time to tackle major home improvements, it is inevitable that most of us will need a contractor during the pandemic.
The housing market in Colorado has remained relatively stable due to reduced interest rates and the lack of inventory on the market. With less people moving, more people working and staying at home, travel plans being delayed, and home values remaining stable, it is a great time to invest in previously procrastinated projects.
When hiring a contractor, the basic fundamentals always apply. Be sure workers are licensed, insured and can provide documentation. If you are doing an extensive project, be sure you are comfortable with your general contractor and have no reservations discussing your project.
These are simple ways to increase comfort level during the pandemic for homeowners and contractors, both of whom have the same concerns for safety and exposure to families. For construction, working from home means working from your home, and it is not as complicated as some fear.
1) Make a plan – When hiring a contractor, have a discussion and decide what steps will make both of you most comfortable. It will be appreciated for both parties.
2) Adhere to social distancing – Quite simple, respect six foot distancing recommendation and wear masks. If you have a high risk situation, you can also reduce face to face discussions to under ten minutes. For longer conversations, continue outside.
3) Dust barriers – For any remodeling project, it is recommended to plastic off the construction area to minimize dust in other areas of the house. This simple step will also create a workspace boundary and a natural barrier for children and pets.
4) Primary entry – Have contractors and subs use the entrance closest to the project, reducing walkway through the home. This is a standard practice and makes transporting materials easiest and most efficient.
5) Technology and Communication – Particularly if you are working away from home, or have the luxury to travel, stay in contact. Skype and Zoom are two easy ways to have virtual conferences with your contractor.
6) Wash areas – As we know, hand washing with water is more effective than hand sanitizer, so if a concern and you have the ability, provide warm water source and hand soap for your long term contractor(s) to use. Consider a Porta Potty delivery for contractors and their subs exclusive use.
7) Preferred scheduling – If there are specific times that you are working away from home, children are at school, or you are on vacation, these may be most comfortable time for having contractors in the house. Schedules must be reasonable and preferred, not exclusive.
Most contractors, independent or within a larger company, are very respectful of pandemic restrictions and everyone’s safety. Many of these suggestions are based on standard practice, and simply highlighted and expanded for reference. Having the conversation and establishing realistic guidelines will make both parties most comfortable and alleviate apprehensions while having work done in your home.
