Job Site Supervision

During home renovations, jobsite supervision can be a real sore spot if you don't clearly understand what will be provided once the job begins. For new custom home construction, supervision is less critical because unless you like life in a tent, you aren't living at the jobsite. If, however, you are trying to cling to family routines in the midst of a major renovation, you may want daily supervision to insure your project progresses smoothly and that problems are handled quickly.

From the contractor's point of view, there is a cost to full-time supervision. Depending on your budget, you may want to look at alternatives to full-time supervision. In speaking to your contractor, try to understand how the renovations will affect you and your family on a daily basis. Your contractor may be able to demonstrate that full-time supervision isn't necessary. Major portions of many renovations simply don't require full-time supervision. For example, once any framing is completed and the electrician or plumber is doing his rough-in installation, the job supervisor may meet the subcontractor first thing in the morning to review the scope of work with him or her. The supervisor may then leave the job and not return until late afternoon or the next morning to review the subcontractor's progress. Similarly, when drywall is being installed over Framed–walls and ceilings, no other work can be performed. There are key points in every renovation that a reduced level of supervision makes sense.

Simply speaking, full-time supervision allows you to feel more secure. Without it, the construction horror stories you've heard from friends and family can seem to take root in your home. However, there is a cost to full time supervision. Talk to your contractor! Make sure you are comfortable with the supervision they plan to provide!