Don’t automatically take the lowest bid, unless you are certain the renovator has properly understood what you want. Sometimes low bids turn out to be the most expensive in the end. If you accept the renovator’s offer, it’s time to write up the contract. Even the simplest of jobs should be outlined in writing because the contract is the basis of understanding between you and your renovator.
Before signing a contract, read it carefully. Are you satisfied with the description of the work to be done? Does the payment schedule include hold-backs? Are the responsibilities of the renovator clearly spelled out? If something is not expressed in the contract, then it’s your responsibility.
