Make Sure These 2 Things Are Not Included in Your Home Renovation Contract
SLG Contracting- Apr 2
- 2 min read
Your home renovation contract is one of the most important documents in your remodeling project. It outlines expectations, costs, and timelines, protecting both you and the contractor. However, not all contracts are created equally, and some may include clauses that can leave you vulnerable to unexpected costs, delays, or legal complications. At SLG Contracting, we believe in transparency, so here are two things that should never be in your home renovation contract.
1. Vague or Open-Ended Pricing
One of the biggest red flags in a renovation contract is unclear pricing. If your contract includes phrases like “costs subject to change” or “final pricing to be determined,” you could end up with unexpected expenses that stretch your budget beyond what you initially planned.
Why It’s a Problem:
It gives the contractor too much flexibility to increase prices after work has started.
You may have little recourse if costs suddenly skyrocket.
It makes budgeting for your project difficult and stressful.
How to Avoid It:
Ensure that your contract provides a detailed breakdown of costs, including materials, labor, and any potential additional expenses.
Ask for a fixed-price contract when possible, or clarify the conditions under which costs may change.
Get everything in writing, including how unexpected costs will be handled.
2. Unrealistic or Undefined Timelines
A contract without clear project timelines can lead to indefinite delays, leaving you living in a construction zone for months longer than expected. Some contractors may include vague deadlines or fail to specify penalties for missing them, which can be a major inconvenience for homeowners.
Why It’s a Problem:
You won’t have a clear expectation of when your renovation will be completed.
Delays could drag on indefinitely with no accountability.
It disrupts your daily life, making it hard to plan around the renovation.
How to Avoid It:
Ensure the contract specifies start and completion dates, as well as a detailed project timeline.
Ask for a penalty clause if the contractor significantly exceeds deadlines without a valid reason.
Include milestone payments tied to project progress to ensure work stays on track.
Work with a Contractor You Can Trust
At SLG Contracting, we believe in providing homeowners with clear, transparent, and fair contracts. We ensure that all pricing and timelines are well-defined, so you can renovate with confidence. If you're planning a home renovation, contact us today to get started!
