Regular communication between you and your renovator may avoid problems.

During the course of a renovation or addition it is common for the homeowner to request changes or ask for additional work. These requests may affect the cost and time it takes to complete your project. It is important that you have a signed change order for all changes.

Make sure that you are aware of additional costs and that these changes are added to the contract. Better still, try to think of these things during the planning stage – you don't want to be ordering additional flowers on the wedding day!

Raise any concerns you may have without delay. Schedule meetings with your renovator when he or she can address your concerns without distraction.

Your renovator will discuss any concerns that you may have with the project or items that do not meet your expectations. But be flexible when minor changes occur that do not affect either the appearance or function of the job. Note any changes that are made as a result of such conferences, and do so in writing.