Construction Blueprints

DEAR TIM: My husband and I want to remodel our kitchen. We would like to relocate the sink, install a larger window, new cabinets, etc. Do we really need "plans" or can we just tell our contractor what we want? E. G.

DEAR E. G.: You need plans. Every successful project has a plan. A plan can be a highly detailed set of blueprints or a simple set of written instructions accompanied by some simple sketches.

A well thought out and detailed plan verifies that what you want to do is possible. This is a vital step in the building process which is frequently overlooked. Countless projects have been started without a plan only to find out that what you or the contractor wanted to do is not possible. When this happens, you generally get stuck with paying for the mistake.

The plan also becomes the core of the contract between you and your contractor. It serves as the only viable way of communicating what you want to the contractor. Plans are a must, don't get stuck without one!

How would you like me to build your new home? It's probably impossible for me to fit your job into my schedule, but I will gladly share hundreds of my tricks and building secrets with you and your builder. Check out my New House Specifications.