How to Build a Great Client Contractor Relationship

When starting a home improvement project, it is important to remember that how you communicate and work with your contractor plays a critical role in achieving a successful project. Take roofing for example. A recent “Cost vs. Value Report” by Remodeling Magazine indicates that the national average for a mid-range roof replacement project is $18,913, while those with grander visions for their roof end up spending almost double that amount at $34,495. With this amount of money at stake, you need to have a partnership with your contractor that will allow you to reap all the rewards of a new roof without the complications.

It’s no coincidence that the most successful projects I have been involved with were with clients that I “clicked with” from the start. A client-contractor relationship is much like a marriage; if you communicate well, chances are you will be happy. Good communication saves both parties a great deal of time because we know what to expect, and both sides know what the other needs.

For your project to become a success, you need to build a good rapport with your contractor, the kind that ensures that concerns are addressed, deadlines are met and your vision is actualized. There are three important steps you can follow to make this happen.

Client Contractor Relationship Building

Step 1: Know what it is that you want and don’t be afraid to let your contractor know.

• Start by familiarizing yourself with the project and its scope.
• Review all aspects of the job together and agree to everything in writing before you start.
• Make sure the payment details have been ironed out before the start of the project.

Step 2: Maintain professionalism at all times.

• Be accessible. You never know when your input or permission might be needed.
• Stick to the plan. Changes will cost you and extend the completion deadline.
• Stay calm when things don’t go as planned. Unexpected challenges may arise, but they can be easily resolved in most cases.

Step 3: Keep in touch after the project.

• Provide suggestions based on your experience. A good roofing company values the opinions of its clients and puts them to good use.
• Add or follow your contractor on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites for the latest promotions and home improvement tips.
• Join the contractor’s mailing list. Staying in touch could mean discounts on your next project or great deals on materials.
• Refer the company to your family and friends. Your contractor will not only be grateful, you and your friends may also get referral bonuses.

About the Author

Lisa Sanning is co-owner of XteriorPRO and one of St. Louis’s leading home improvement experts. Her career in the home improvement industryenables her to provide useful insights for both homeowners and contractors.