What Homeowners Should Ask Before Starting a Remodel

Quick answer: Before starting a remodel, ask yourself what problem you're solving, what your real budget is (including a cushion for surprises), and how much disruption your household can handle. Then ask your contractor about licensing, permits, the written scope, the schedule, how changes are handled, and how they'll communicate with you during the job.

The best remodels are decided long before the first wall comes down. The homeowners who end up happiest are the ones who asked good questions up front, of themselves and of their contractor.

I'm Cory Falkner, owner of Brown Dog Builders in Portland, TN. Here are the questions I wish every homeowner in Gallatin, Hendersonville, and Sumner County asked before starting a remodel. Feel free to print this and bring it to your walkthrough.

Part 1: Questions to ask yourself

What problem am I actually solving?

"I want a new kitchen" is a wish. "We can't cook together without bumping into each other, and there's nowhere to put groceries" is a problem a contractor can solve. Start with how you use the space.

What’s my real budget?

Set a comfortable overall range. We recommend setting aside 10–20% of your project budget as a contingency for unforeseen conditions or design changes you choose along the way. Discuss the right amount for your scope with Cory, and approve changes and their costs in writing before the extra work begins.

How long do we plan to stay in this house?

If you're selling in two years, choose updates buyers value. If this is your forever home, build for how you want to live.

Which decisions can I make before work starts?

Every finish you pick before demolition (tile, faucets, cabinets, lighting) is a delay you avoid later. Late decisions are one of the most common reasons projects run long.

Can we live here during the work?

A bathroom remodel is manageable if you have a second bath. A kitchen remodel means weeks of microwave dinners. Plan for it honestly.

What about pets and kids?

Open doors, tools, and noise are hard on dogs and small children. Decide where they'll be during work hours.

Part 2: Questions to ask your contractor

Are you licensed and insured in Tennessee?

Ask for the license number and check it with the state's Verify a License tool. Ask for a certificate of insurance.

Will this project need permits, and who obtains them?

Ask the local building department which permits and credentials apply, and record the responsibilities in the agreement.

What exactly is included in the price?

Ask for a written scope with allowances and exclusions. See What Makes a Contractor Estimate Reliable? Read the guide ↗

When can you start, and how long will it take?Ask what could delay the work: material lead times, inspections, or hidden damage.

Who will be at my house every day?Will the owner be on site? Which subcontractors will be in your home, and are they licensed where required?

How will you keep me updated?

Weekly updates, photos, a shared schedule? Know before you sign.

How are changes handled?

Changes should be priced and approved in writing before the work is done.

What happens if you find a problem behind the wall?

Hidden moisture damage, wiring, or plumbing conditions can change a scope. Agree on how discoveries will be assessed, priced, and approved.

How will you protect the rest of my house?

Ask about dust barriers, floor protection, daily clean-up, and where the dumpster and materials will go.

What are your working hours?

Most crews start early. Know when to expect noise and when the house is yours again.

Practical details people forget

• HOA approval. Many neighborhoods in Gallatin and Hendersonville have homeowners associations that must approve exterior changes, dumpsters, or work hours. Check before you schedule.
• Parking and access. Where will trucks and deliveries go?
• Utilities. Will water or power be shut off at any point?
• Valuables. Move fragile and valuable items out of the work area and nearby rooms.
• Your schedule. Vacations, holidays, and family events in the middle of a project can slow decisions.

Printable remodel checklist

• Problem we're solving is written down
• Budget set, including a 10–20% contingency for unforeseen conditions or design changes you choose
• Contractor's Tennessee license verified
• Certificate of insurance received
• Written scope with allowances and exclusions
• Permit plan confirmed
• Start date and timeline in writing
• Change-order process in writing
• Finishes selected (or allowances agreed)
• Plan for pets, kids, and living arrangements
• HOA approval, if needed

Frequently asked questions

What should I do before a contractor's walkthrough?

Write down what's not working in the space, gather photos of styles you like, and know your budget range. The more specific you are, the more accurate the estimate.

How far in advance should I plan a remodel?

Ask about current availability, design work, permit review, and material lead times before setting a target date. The right planning window depends on the project.

Can I stay in my house during a remodel?

It depends on access, dust control, utilities, and whether essential rooms remain usable. Agree on a safe living arrangement before work starts.

Should I buy my own materials?

You can, but talk with your contractor first. Contractor-supplied materials usually come with clearer responsibility for the right quantities, timing, and warranty.