DIY Home Project: Creating Your Checklist

Remodeling a room or your entire home is a stressful undertaking; there’s so much to remember and so many responsibilities to juggle that you need a checklist to keep track of it all. A good checklist is one of the most valuable project tools you’ll have, because it enables you to keep track of your work every step of the way. Here are some things to keep in mind while working, and steps to include on your list.

Keep it Legal

Larger DIY jobs (such as room additions) might require official paperwork and permits. Some require so much that you’ll need another checklist entirely! Keeping up with legal documents and procedures is important, and you may need to have a building inspector come in regularly to check your progress. If you fail to keep up with your paperwork, you may run into legal obstacles.

Keep Track of Your Help

If you’re hiring professional help for any aspect of your project, you’ll need a list for them as well. Before calling in a pro, get at least three estimates for the work to be done, along with references (don’t forget to follow up with them). Jot down a list of things you’ll need on your contract, such as a finish-by date and stipulations in case the job isn’t finished by that deadline.

You’ll also need to think of costs for tools, materials and insurance; review your list and your contract as the work progresses to ensure that it goes smoothly. If you’re largely doing the work yourself, but calling a pro for plumbing and electrical tasks, you’ll need to do the same for them in order to keep the job within budget and on time.

Break the List Down by Job

If you’re going the total DIY route, you’ll need to separate your checklist into individual jobs. List all the materials you’ll need, checking them off as they’re ordered or delivered. This will come in handy if something isn’t delivered on time or if your order comes up short. If you’re doing a smaller DIY project, you should only order enough materials for the job at hand; you’ll be able to monitor your inventory more carefully. List job parts in sequential order, and check them off as they’re done. Your list may seem long and tedious, but taking some time to put one together is worthwhile.

Make a Timetable

The most important part of your DIY checklist is a good timetable, especially with more extensive renovations; they’re especially useful if you need to finish the work before the seasons change. By having a set time in which each part of the job needs to be done, you can easily see whether you’re on schedule or falling behind. The same principles and timetable can be applied to you or any contractors/subcontractors you hire.

Image credit: zzpza

This article was written by James Harper on behalf of Tool Orders, retailers of tools. Visit their site to see their range of tools.