Planning & Scoping

1. 
   1. Define project goals and scope
   Tips

   Articulate success criteria, required rooms or areas, and must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. Create a rough square footage baseline if remodeling (e.g., total sq ft, key rooms). Budget context: plan for 5–10% contingency and consider region-specific costs.
2. 
   2. Assemble preliminary trades list and count
   Tips

   Identify core trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, insulation, finishes). Use a rough count to gauge permits, scheduling, and coordination needs. Typical trade shares: Plumbing 5–10%, Electrical 5–10%, HVAC 10–20%, Kitchen 15–30%, Bathroom 10–25%.
3. 
   3. Confirm project type and boundaries
   Tips

   Clarify what is included (interior work, exterior work, structural changes) and what lies outside scope to prevent scope creep.
4. 
   4. Plan site access, safety, and temporary utilities
   Tips

   Assess access for material deliveries, parking, dust control, contractor safety plan, and temporary utilities (power, water) if needed.

Vetting & Licensing

1. 
   5. Verify licenses for trades (region-specific)
   Tips

   Confirm current licenses with state/local boards for trades like plumbing, electrical, HVAC. Check expiration and status; ensure license matches scope of work.
2. 
   6. Verify insurance coverage and certificates
   Tips

   Request general liability and workers’ compensation certificates; require additional insured language where applicable. Confirm subcontractors’ coverage as well.
3. 
   7. Confirm permit requirements and approvals
   Tips

   Identify which permits are needed (structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical). Assign who applies, estimated processing times, and inspection windows.

Design & Engineering

1. 
   8. Engage architect/designer if needed; review concept plans
   Tips

   For complex layouts, architectural input helps ensure code compliance and spatial efficiency. Design fees range ~0.50–2.00 per sq ft for remodel plans.
2. 
   9. Structural engineer consultation (if required)
   Tips

   Consult on load-bearing walls or major structural changes; typical consult costs range $350–$900.
3. 
   10. Prepare initial plans and blueprints for approvals
   Tips

   Ensure plans reflect intended scope, meet local codes, and are permit-ready; involve trades in review where needed.

Quoting & Budget

1. 
   11. Obtain multiple quotes and compare scopes
   Tips

   Request breakdowns by trade; ensure the quotes align with the scope; consider 25–40% labor share in remodeling budgets as guidance.
2. 
   12. Break down costs by trade and contingencies
   Tips

   Create a line-item budget by trade; allocate 5–10% contingency for unforeseen conditions.
3. 
   13. Establish contingency budget and guardrails
   Tips

   Reserve 5–10% of total budget for unforeseen conditions; define what triggers a contingency draw.
4. 
   14. Confirm payment schedule and milestones
   Tips

   Define payment milestones tied to inspections, approvals, and completed work; include retainage terms where applicable.

Scheduling & Logistics

1. 
   15. Develop master timeline and sequence of trades
   Tips

   Plan the logical order of trades to minimize rework and delays; integrate lead times for long-lead items.
2. 
   16. Align site access windows and temporary utilities
   Tips

   Coordinate schedules with all trades; arrange parking, dust barriers, and temporary utilities if needed.
3. 
   17. Confirm material lead times and deliveries
   Tips

   Order long-lead items early and confirm substitutions with vendors to avoid delays.
4. 
   18. Finalize permits timeline and inspection dates
   Tips

   Lock in inspection windows and ensure inspections line up with the scheduled completion milestones.

Change Orders & Closeout

1. 
   19. Draft change order process and approval workflow
   Tips

   Document change requests, cost/time impacts, and approvals; maintain an up-to-date change log.
2. 
   20. Compile closeout package: warranties, manuals, maintenance tips
   Tips

   Collect all manufacturer warranties, as-built drawings, and maintenance guides; provide homeowners with a maintenance plan.