Q&A with Jean: What’s the Proper Etiquette with a Contractor?

Effective communication is crucial in any renovation project. While traditional methods like phone calls and faxes still exist, modern tools like email and text messages have become the preferred channels for homeowners and contractors alike. These digital platforms allow for a seamless and efficient exchange of information, ensuring that everyone involved stays informed and aligned throughout the renovation process.

Etiquette isn’t just for formal occasions! Read on for simple etiquette tips for working with your contractor.

Sweeten’s Founder + CEO Answers Your Renovation Questions

Welcome to #13 in our Renovation Question series, designed to bring clarity to some of the mysteries of renovating! Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a serial renovator, each project brings with it a new set of circumstances and new questions, and Sweeten is here to be a source of knowledge and reassurance.

This week, we’re tackling a question regarding etiquette for working with a general contractor and their crew. Luckily, with some small gestures and clear communication, you’ll set yourself up for success.

What is the proper etiquette when working with a general contractor?

JEAN: When a general contractor crew is working in your home, I think people wonder about things like “Do I offer them water?” or “Can I contact them during off-hours?” Obviously, it’s up to you. Just keep in mind that these folks are in your home for a long period of time. Anything you can do to maintain a professional relationship and make it a pleasant work environment is positive. We want people to be comfortable and to be as productive as possible.

Setting up a separate text thread using apps such as WhatsApp versus direct texting offers a specific place to discuss business that is not on personal time. If your contractor’s team will be in a hot apartment, it’s a nice gesture to have a refrigerator filled with water for them. Similarly, you can make bathroom arrangements for them. It doesn’t have to be yours, but you could make sure that there’s a bathroom in your building they can use.

After you’ve hired a Sweeten contractor, letting the other contractors know that you’ve moved forward with another firm and thanking them for their time is a courteous way to close the loop.

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Looking for more advice from Jean? Be sure to check out the twelfth installment in this series, Q&A With Jean: How Do I Document Change Orders?

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