Disagreements are inevitable during the building process. With such a large project at stake, it’s expected to experience conflict or misunderstanding at times. However, over the last 20 years, we’ve learned how to minimize the occurrence of disagreements between builder and client and how to best come to a resolution that keeps both parties happy!
Common Disagreements Between Builders and Clients
These are just a handful of the most common disagreements that often arise between builder and client. Luckily, through education and understanding, we can avoid these disagreements all together!
1. Walk-Through List
As part of the closing process, the builder and client should put together a walk-through list, together. This involves walking the entire house and noting any areas that still need attention or changes made. This list should always be in writing and signed by both parties to eliminate any misunderstanding and avoid disagreement.
2. Change Orders
Making any changes to your house plan after the design is finished will likely result in a change order and additional cost. It’s important to understand exactly how change orders work before starting the building process. Most builders will handle change orders differently, so the change order process should be made clear from the get-go.
3. Mismanaged Expectations
Before signing a design or building contract, both parties should clearly and definitively lay out their expectations. Again, it’s important to always keep these agreements and understandings in writing to avoid any disagreements down the road.
4. Miscommunication
For any changes, concerns, or questions, clients should always address the builder or project manager directly. And, vice versa. Speaking to subcontractors or other parties about concerns or changes can leave a lot of room for miscommunication and mismanaged expectations.
While disagreements are unavoidable during the building process, it’s important to work with a builder who will set expectations from the very beginning and keep a listening ear to address any concerns that arise along the way.