BATHROOM REMODELING CHECKLIST

Use this checklist to get yourself started and keep you on track.

• Set up a file to keep track of design ideas, look through books,magazines and make notes of products, manufacturers.

• Make list of must haves and wishes, so you'll know clearly where you will and won't compromise. Keep in mind whats working and not working in your existing bathroom.

• Visit show rooms same company and model homes, friends remodeling projects, again toting what and wouldn't work for you

• Begin research contractors checking with local professional associations, ask friends for referrals.

• Incorporate universal design elements, such as tub, cabinet, toilet, faucets, easy access shower door, towel bars, light fixtures, if you plan to stay in your home for many years.

• Invite contractor in your house to review your project and give bids. Provide each with identical plans and information to receive accurate proposals. Be aware of your reaction to the contractor. This is an ongoing relationship: if you feel uncomfortable, keep looking.

• Be sure expectations are clear, and then get everything in writing, perhaps having contracts checked before they are signed. Also be sure you understand and are comfortable with how money will be distributed. Theres generally a start up payment, several interim disbursements and a balance due upon completion.

• Fine tune your plan and pare down your idea file. With samples and accurate measurements in hand, visit home- improvement center and bath showrooms, keeping track of item numbers. You may or may not want to do this with your designer.

• Be clear on who should order what, generally, the contractor will handle orders and schedule deliveries. If you choose to buy fixtures on your own, bear in mind that a contractor may not warrant the installation of what he doesn't provide.

• Depending upon the size of the project and the level of detail, a full bathroom remodeling requires about four to six weeks, start to finish.

• Talk with the contractor about day-to-day routines, including where deliveries will be stored, where work areas will be set up, which bathroom workers will use. Keep pets away from the site.

• Keep communications open so everyone knows what to expect and what is expected of them. Be available for questions, either on site or by phone. Often contractors will run into snags that require homeowner input or approval, if they are unable to reach you quickly, in can cause expensive delays.

• Note items to be completed. You and the contractor will have a final walk-through, making a punch list of to-dos before you sign off.

Remember the golden rule of any home improvement project the more planning you do up front, the happier you'll be with the final result.