Communication is key for a remodeling project to be successful. Here are some tips to ensure you’re prepared.

• Before work begins, ask your remodeling contractor what inconveniences may occur while the project is under way and plan for them accordingly.
• Be sure your contractor is aware of vacations or special events so that he or she may schedule their job site time appropriately.
• Consider moving personal property from construction areas and declare all work zones off-limits to children and pets.
• Be sure your remodeling contractor creates a written change order if your remodeling project is modified while work is being done. Both parties should sign the amendment.
• Keep a job file, including contract, plans, specifications, invoices, change orders and all correspondence with the contractor.
• Request a contractor's Affidavit of Final Release be provided to you at the time you make final payment and a final waiver of mechanic's lien. This is your assurance that you will not be liable for any third-party claims for nonpayment of materials or subcontractors.

Most important, keep the lines of communication open between you and the remodeling contractor and the work crew. Ask questions. Let them know what your family schedule is and whether you have pets confined somewhere. Make sure you have specified how—via phone, in-person or via e-mail—and how often you wish to communicate with your remodeling contractor about your project.