frequently asked questions…

 

Everyone has questions, and not surprisingly there is a short list that is asked by just about everyone considering a remodeling project. We've listed those below with answers. If you should have a specific question you would like to ask, call or email us. We'd be happy to provide you with information.


Q. Do you provide free estimates?


A. Yes. We will try to give you "ball park" figures for the project. We use our years of experience and comparable jobs completed to arrive at this figure; much as a realtor uses "comparables" to determine the value of your house.  Many things are involved in the pricing of a project such as cabinetry, fixtures, design and layout.  Until a design is finalized and these items are chosen, an accurate proposal can’t be given.  If you then want to continue forward with a detailed written Proposal or employ us for a Design/Build project, we require a fee which is applied to your job should you decide to proceed with our company.   The amount of the fee, which includes construction documents, can vary based upon size, specifications and complexity of the project.

 

Q. Why is important to have a detailed design now, can we plan as we decide as we build?


A. It’s vital to your project to have a good plan.  Also, consider that if you will have more than one company bid on your project, how will you determine the best overall value?  The bids may contain very different materials or construction techniques.  You will have to make a very important choice based on incomplete information and your budget, completed project or both may suffer in the end. 

 

Q. How much does it cost to design my project?


A. The cost can vary considerably, but the thing to remember is that all design costs will be applied to the project if you decide to go ahead with K and A Carosella, Inc. 


Q. Will you work with an Architect or designer I have chosen?


A. Absolutely.  If you employ our company for your project we will work closely with your design professional.  We will provide for you a detailed proposal based upon their specifications.


Q. When can you start?


A. Lead times can vary, but usually we are booked out four to eight weeks in advance. Often, by the time the design work is completed, the special order products are ordered and in local inventory, and the permits are acquired, we are ready to start.

 

Q. Can you finance my project?


A. With our special relationship with GE Consumer Finance we are able to offer financing to homeowners utilizing our company for their remodeling project.  Ask us for more details and an application. 


Q. What are your payment terms?


A. Our payment schedules are progress driven. For instance, a payment may be required at start, after framing inspection, or plumbing rough-in.  You "pay as you go" - and you can see the work progressing as you are paying for it. This enables us to run a more efficient operation knowing in advance when payments are coming in. This translates into better job cost control and a tighter job schedule - two things which are very important to our clients.

 

Q. What if we want to make changes after we have signed a contract?


A. Obviously, things can change or be accidentally left out. In this case we will write a change order specifying the change to be made to the Proposal and how much it will cost. The change order must be signed prior to the beginning of the work involved and payment is expected when the change order is executed.


Q. Do you have insurance?


A. Our company carries general liability, auto and worker’s compensation.  A certificate can be issued to you upon request after executing a contract.

 

Q. Do you furnish references?


A. Of course. And please call them. We work hard to have the best reputation in our area and we are proud of it. We love to have our clients do our selling for us.

 

Q. How long will my project take to complete?


A. Before your job begins, we will discuss time lines for completion.  We attempt to stick to the schedule always. Sometimes Mother Nature won't cooperate, sometimes delays can occur in the material supply chain, but this is usually the exception. It is to our advantage to get the job done on time and on budget. We want you to tell your friends and neighbors good things about K and A Carosella!


Q. Do you provide a guarantee or warranty?


A. Of Course!  Our craftsmanship has a full warranty for one year. This means anything from drywall cracks to squeaky hinges. We want you to be happy with our work and we know that sometimes things happen - and we don't want those "things" to make you think of us in a poor light. We want you to enjoy your project.


Q. What about building permits?


A. Most renovations require a building permit.  These vary from locality to locality, along with fees.  The permit process is there to protect you, to make certain that local building codes are adhered to strictly, and that your project meets local zoning standards.  You should never attempt a remolding project without ensuring that you are meeting all the local codes and building standards.

 

Q. What is NARI?


A. The National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI), the "Voice of the Professional Remodeling Industry™," is the nation's only not-for-profit trade association specifically dedicated to the professional remodeling industry. NARI promotes ethical and sound business practices for the benefit of the industry and America's homeowners. NARI members will consistently deliver high quality remodeling projects that ensure housing stock is safer, more comfortable and secure. Each member of NARI is pledged to observe the highest standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of business.