I take possession of a 50 year old house as of August 1 2008. I’ve completed arrangements to move in on August 22. In the three weeks between these dates, there’s some work that I need and/or would like to schedule and complete. Based on my house inspection, some of this work will be needed, including, amongst other things, electrical and plumbing (nothing major, I believe); based on my preferences, some of the work will be discretionary including the laying of hardwood in the upstairs and the painting of some rooms. My question is this: I should think that the work would need to be properly sequenced and I have no idea as to how realistic the time period of three weeks would be or who or where to go to get the work sequenced properly. Would it be appropriate to take my home-inspection results to a general contractor and let him co-ordinate everything?
Answer:
The appropriate sequence would be to have everything done which forces opening of walls, then painting and the flooring last. Any handyman can co-ordinate this for you. He'll usually also have contacts for getting that part of the work done that he doesn't do himself. Three weeks should be penty of time if your handyman is prepared to start when you close the deal.
In the interests of retaining credibility that I worked several decades to establish and in fairness to all, I don’t comment on various (building, electrical, plumbing) codes, brand-specific products, recommend prices, people nor companies for various projects.
Remember, even if you don’t do your own work around the house have to hire someone, you put yourself at a great advantage when you can intelligently discuss a project with the various trades people.
"Ren’s Ren-O-Vations Tips" is a monthly journal that talks about everything to do with HOME OWNERSHIP & MAINTANENCE.
It is sent out in time to have it in your mailbox or on your computer by the 20th of the month – every month.
To order, simply send a cheque or money order to: Ren, P.O. Box 9411, Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 3V1
E-mail – 12 issues (1 yr.) $17.95. Regular mail – 12 issues (1 yr.) $33.95. (subject to change without notice) Credit card companies take a cut from payments so we are not credit card friendly - can't justify it. Ren’s Ren-O-Vations Tips makes the perfect gift any time for almost everyone: Be My Valentine, Easter, Christmas, Mothers’ Day, Fathers' Day, Birthday, Wedding, Congratulations New Home Owner(s), Thinking Of you, Good neighbour
I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Ren-O-Vations ‘Cross Canada – the Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Host of CFRA Radio 580’s Ren-O-Vations ‘Cross Canada and Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com.
