Do you charge for estimates?
No, First we start with an over-the-phone conference to determine the requirements for the project. Then we schedule a time to meet at the site and discuss details of the project. Some measurements are taken and then a written estimate is prepared and presented to the owner. Because of the detail of our bids, this process could take up to two weeks.

How many estimates should I get?
The majority of people would say to get at least three estimates from contractors. This works well if you have no personal experience with the contractors you have selected. However, if a contractor has been recommended by a friend and you have seen their work, one estimate may be all that is required. If you decide to get three estimates make sure they are about 10-15% within each other. If they are not, you should inquire as to why one would be so much higher or lower than the others. Make sure all the contractors have the same understanding of the job. Just remember to look closely, buyer beware."

Why do prices vary on different estimates?
There are many different factors to take into consideration when pricing estimates. First make sure that the estimates have the same scope of work and material allowances. The amount of service provided by the contractor has a big effect on the cost. Such as, do they provide design services? If the contractor handles every detail of the project the price will probably be higher. If the contractor has all proper forms of insurance the price will be higher than a "pick-up contractor." Do they have a showroom to ease the selection process? Quality of work is another factor of the cost. The customer should not have to ask for things to be re-done. If you are still undecided call references provided by the contractor. Visit their offices and showroom. How they represent and conduct themselves and their business reflects on how they will manage your project.

Do you provide a warranty for your work?
Yes, We provide a one-year warranty on all labor. Materials, such as appliances, are generally warranted by the manufacturers. In Texas, you want to make sure your contractor is registered with the TRCC - Texas Residential Construction Commission. Your contractor should register your project with the state which will then provide you with a warranty, inspection and arbitration process if problems occur. The TRCC also requires all contractors to perform due diligence and have all of the workers that enter your home background screened.

Do you require a down payment before you start?
On larger projects, we require a $2000.00 scheduling deposit. Payment for materials is due when they are ordered. Then a payment schedule is drawn up for the labor portion of your project and is determined by the scope of the project. There is always a 10% retainage held out for your final payment...due upon substantial completion of your project.

What are some key questions to ask the contractor when they come to see me?
A few key questions to ask could be:

• "How long have you been in business?"
• "Have you ever done a project like this one, if so tell me about it?"
• "Do you have insurance?"
• "Who does your work? Your employees? Are portions of the project done by sub-contractors?"
• "What professional organizations are you a part of...BBB, NARI, etc."

Ask as many questions as you would like until you find a contractor that can answer all of your questions to your satisfaction. Always ask for a list of references...current and past.

How long will the project take to complete?
It all depends on the type of construction taking place. Remodeling projects often take longer than new construction due to the factors that are involved, including; limited access to the work area, work areas that are already fully furnished, demolition of the current finishes, the "unknown" of what is behind walls, daily clean up, and delivery schedule of special ordered items. Major remodels, additions and adding 2nd floors could take from 5 months to a year. A contractor should not schedule your project in pieces and start and stop the work. We try to make sure all materials are ordered and "in-house" before the project is started. During the project there are bound to be a few problems that arise. At Southwest Interior & Design, we will take care of the problems quickly and efficiently so the project can move forward.

What can I do and expect when construction is taking place?
The most important thing you can do during construction is to ASK QUESTIONS. A contractor wants to know right away if things are not right. Remember that it is your money so feel free to ask anything you would like. If you are getting the interior of your house remodeled make sure that we have full access to your house. We use lock-boxes on most projects for security and because there are times when our crews may need to leave and come back. Our prepping procedures include tenting off areas to minimize the dust and placing plastic and paper floor protection throughout entry areas.

I keep hearing about change orders, what are they?
A change order is a written statement signed by the customer authorizing the contractor to do additional work, which was not included in the original contract. The change order should be signed before the additional work is started, but often it is not in order to keep the project moving. The amount specified is billed and due upon the change order being completed. A change order also may be written when a contractor comes across any unforeseen damage or problem.