Contract Remodeling Services
Talk with Austin Remodeling Experts You Can Trust
Backed by 50+ years of experience, we guide projects from concept to completion—creating beautiful, functional commercial and residential spaces delivered on time and on budget.
Get in touch to request a free estimate, schedule service, or ask other general inquiries.
Why Partner with Us?
At Contract Remodeling Services, we help local homeowners and businesses across Greater Austin to bring their projects to life with full design-build general contracting services—kitchens, baths, room additions, exteriors, tenant build-outs, construction, and more.
50+ Years of Industry Experience
Veteran-Owned & Operated
All-in-One General Contractor
Licensed, Insured & Accredited
Committed to Quality Results
Get the expertise you deserve to make your vision a reality!
1. What is the difference between a general contractor and a standard remodeler?
General contractors (GCs) offer services from the onsite of planning and designing all the way through building or remodeling and can manage a team of contractors, including remodelers, electricians, plumbers, roofers, and other specialized contractors.
The main differences lie in the scope and level of services provided:
General Contractors (GC): Offer a wide range of services from the onset of planning and designing to the completion of the project. They handle all phases, including permits and managing a large trade base, including remodelers, electricians, plumbers, roofers, and other specialized contractors. General contractors offer more experience and a greater level of service that can be provided for the project as a whole.
Standard Remodelers: Typically limited in scope, often handling smaller, less complex projects. They may not provide comprehensive services like a GC.
2. When should I choose a remodeler over a general contractor?
While general contractors may handle a wide range of project sizes, remodelers are typically restricted to smaller renovation projects only, such as repainting, deck building, installing flooring, backsplash in a kitchen, or ceiling fans. For larger, complex projects, a general contractor is more suitable due to their comprehensive services and ability to manage extensive, multi-faceted projects.
3. What services can I expect as a homeowner from a general contractor?
A general contractor can offer design and build services as well as comprehensive project management. This includes structural design and planning, pulling permits, and overseeing the entire project from start to finish. This can also include handling multiple phases of the remodeling project, coordinating tradesmen, and ensuring project timelines and budgets are met.
A general contractor like Contract Remodeling Services is a one-stop shop, handling multiple phases of a remodeling or new construction project under one roof.
4. What are some red flags to watch for when considering a general contractor?
Watch out for these “red flags” before hiring a general contractor:
Personality and professionalism: Don’t waste your time if you don’t feel comfortable with the contractor. They should be punctual, communicative, and respectful from when the phone rings to long after the project has been finished.
Business credentials: Verify their experience, licensing, insurance, references, and presence on platforms like the Better Business Bureau.
Interest in your project: A contractor should ask relevant questions about your needs and project details. If they don’t care, you shouldn’t either.
5. What financial preparations should I make before engaging a contractor?
It’s imperative to have some type of an understanding of what your expenditures are going to be. This includes setting a budget ceiling and establishing a realistic contingency fund.
Set a clear budget: Have a maximum budget in mind and be transparent with your contractor to avoid misunderstandings and financial overruns.
Contingency fund: Allocate an additional 20-30% of the project’s estimated cost to cover unforeseen expenses. This fund should be set aside in escrow.
An estimated project cost should not be considered as the overall cost because the actual overall cost cannot be calculated up front. The more intricate and the more difficult the remodel is, the more likely the estimated project cost will not perfectly align with the actual cost.
The typical payment schedule for a major project in the remodeling industry is called a 90-10 split. You have a 30% deposit, 30% to man the project on site, and another 30% that’s an equated value point of the amount of work done and performed, such as pulling permits, time taken for a city inspector, etc. The final 10% is retained until the end of the job once complete.
6. How is the estimated cost of a project determined?
The estimated cost of a remodeling project can be determined in several ways, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
For small projects, an on-site meeting is typically sufficient to assess the value and scope of the work.
For more complex projects that require architectural or engineering expertise, we recommend involving a licensed structural designer or an licensed architect. This pricing plan should include obtaining permits and creating a detailed set of plans, which allows for a more accurate estimation of the project’s cost.
7. How are unforeseen setbacks handled during a project?
Unforeseen setbacks are managed through change orders, which are adjustments to the project contract due to unexpected issues or changes in the project scope. It’s important to have a clear process for handling these changes outlined in your contract.
Some of the main reasons a setback may occur on a design-build project include:
• Unexpected Structural Issues
• Design Changes
• Permit Delays
• Supply Chain Issues
• Weather Conditions
• Unforeseen Site Conditions
• Budget Constraints
8. How detailed are the project agreements and what do they typically cover?
Our project agreements are clear and thorough, typically spanning 6-7 pages in length. They cover various aspects such as change orders, payment schedules, and the timing of draws. The agreements also include plans, designs, and detailed payment schedules. Additionally, they outline processes for mediation in case of disputes between the client and the contractor. This ensures that all parties are clear on the expectations and legalities of the project.
9. How do you ensure the quality of workmanship in a project?
At Contract Remodeling Services, our commitment to quality is front and center thanks to onsite supervision and daily walkthroughs. We check thoroughly for anything that needs to be completed, anything that’s lacking, and anything that requires tradesmen to come in. The client is also encouraged to join the walkthroughs with our general contrators at different agreed upon intervals, especially near the final phases of the project.
10. How do you understand the needs, wants, and wishes of the homeowner to translate them into their ideal renovation project?
Every project begins with a free on-site estimate. This is a great chance to meet in-person, walk through the space together, and collaboratively discuss your vision. During this initial meeting, we’ll ask thoughtful questions to understand your goals, whether you’re building something new or remodeling an existing space.
We take the time to learn how the project should function for your lifestyle, whether it’s accommodating a growing family, supporting a business need, or fulfilling another personal requirement. In some cases, this process may involve additional meetings to refine the design and ensure every detail aligns perfectly with your vision before work begins.
11. What are some reasons I should avoid starting a remodeling or construction project?
You should avoid a remodeling or construction project if you lack a financial safety net for unexpected costs or cannot manage extended displacement (depending on the extent of the renovations or construction). You should first make sure that you have a contingency fund in place, then be prepared for potential delays that might require a longer stay outside of your home.
Neigborhoods We Serve
Austin, Bee Cave, Barton Creek, Barton Hills, Bouldin Creek, Cedar Park, Dripping Springs, Georgetown, Holly, Lakeway, Leander, Liberty Hill, Pflugerville, Rollingwood, Round Rock, Tarrytown, Travis Heights, West Lake Hills, Zilker
Copyright © 2025, Contract Remodeling Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Website By Good Aura.