The Importance of Being in Charge From Start To Finish

Written by Jaqui Lividini

When it comes to finalizing the aesthetic details of your home renovation, let it be known that nobody will see the things that you see, even when they are plainly obvious. Contractors and electricians are blind to these aesthetic details, so staying on top of the proceedings is crucial.  Making matters more confusing, town code often dictates that switches and outlets need to be in very specific locations in relation to the walls, windows, water sources, etc.

Knowing all of this, I was very clear with my contractor about where I wanted certain switches/outlets placed and my vision for these final touches. Unfortunately, it seems that I wasn’t clear enough, because when I returned to the house I found a light switch and a smoke detector at a focal point while lying in bed—and this was only one of a handful of aesthetic missteps.

The lesson learned here— even when you think you’re communicating to your contractor, he’s probably tone deaf.  Next time, double and triple checking is not too much, even if you get the eye roll. You’ll feel so much better when you’re sitting in bed, NOT looking directly at a smoke detector.