You may be surprised how often it comes up that a homeowner is planning a remodeling job when fire, water, or storm damage occurs to the house. It seems logical to think while the damage is being repaired might be the perfect time to conduct the remodel upgrades you’ve been planning. As to conducting the work on the ground, it makes perfect sense to do all the work at once. However there is a process involved which sometimes makes it more difficult than to simply have everything done immediately but the damage has to be repaired ASAP.
The Difference between Restoration and Remodeling
The first consideration is remodels and restoration services aren’t the same. Although any contractor is capable of doing either, not every contractor specializes in both. Restoration and repairs involve removing the old materials and installing new the same as the old was, with the only exception being if the old structure no longer meets the new code requirements. Remodeling, on the other hand, requires design and planning, installation of a new style and new materials.
Making Upgrades with Restoration
Restoration work, especially when being conducted for insurance purposes, typically does not include upgrades. It can be the perfect opportunity to conduct upgrades as the demolition is the same either way and rather than replacing the damaged area with the same replacing it with a better material, but sometimes it just won’t work. The damage has to be repaired immediately whereas custom upgrades generally have to be ordered and planned ahead for. Although most contractors will make emergency repairs a priority, remodel jobs have to be scheduled in line with the contractor’s other jobs.
Insurance Companies’ Involvement
One of the largest prohibiting factors to conducting remodels with restoration services is working with the insurance company. Unfortunately, insurance fraud has led many insurance companies to insist on using their own authorized contractors rather than simply cutting a check for the amount of the damage. Then the contractor has to conduct the complete job he was hired to do. The dilemma is that even though you were planning to upgrade an older home feature, now you have a brand new floor or wall, or cabinetry, and it makes no sense to replace it even though it isn’t what you had wanted as part of the remodel you were planning.
With luck, you can discuss the issue with your insurance agent and find a solution. It always helps to work with a contractor authorized for insurance work who can speak on your behalf about what needs to be done.
