Once clients decide to move forward with us, the next question is often, “What happens now?” You may wonder: Who will we be working with? How will we make decisions about design details like cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures? What does the collaboration look like? This blog post walks you through what to expect once we kick off your remodeling project — from your initial meeting with our leadership team to the hands-on support you’ll receive every step of the way.
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Step 1: Your Project Kickoff: What Happens First
Once a client signs on with Custom Contracting, the project is handed off to Assistant Production Coordinator Sterling Bump. Sterling becomes the main point of contact during the early stages, reaching out with an email that introduces the team members involved and outlines what to expect next. She coordinates the preliminary schedule and helps launch the product selection process. Once the timeline is confirmed Production Manager Craig Leilasus creates a detailed project timeline that maps out each phase from start to finish.
Step 2: Meet the Designer
Once the initial coordination is complete, Design Jane Scammon reaches out to begin the design and product selection process. She works closely with homeowners to finalize the layout of the space and guide cabinetry decisions based on both function and aesthetics.
As the design takes shape, clients are encouraged to visit local plumbing and tile showrooms to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their vision. Around this time, Project Coordinator Michael Daniell steps in to assist with selecting any necessary windows and doors, as well as flooring options like hardwood or vinyl. He also begins the process of applying for the building permit, keeping the project moving forward on schedule.
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Step 3: Product Selection & Finalizing the Schedule
As the design process moves forward, clients are encouraged to schedule appointments with recommended vendors listed on the Vendor Sheet included in their contract packet. Two of our top partners are Ferguson in Burlington, for plumbing and lighting, and Roma Tile in Watertown for tile. Visiting these showrooms gives homeowners the opportunity to see products in person, get inspired, and work directly with our trusted representatives to explore their options.
Once selections have been made, the showroom reps send the information to our team, which is then shared with the homeowner along with an updated selection sheet. This sheet tracks how product choices align with the project’s allowances, helping homeowners stay on budget.
At this stage, our team also provides guidance on product lead times. If an item has an extended delivery window, it may affect the construction schedule. For example, if a shower fixture has a 90-day lead time, but the bathroom remodel is expected to take 60 days, the start date may be adjusted to avoid unnecessary downtime. Tracking lead times carefully also allows our production team to finalize the construction timeline and keep the project on track.
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Step 4: Construction and Completion!
About a week before the project begins there will be a pre-construction meeting with Craig as well as the lead carpenter on the project and the homeowner. This meeting is an opportunity to review the project scope, discuss logistics, and address any final questions before work gets underway.
Then it’s time for the hammers to start swinging! Once construction begins, the lead carpenter takes charge of coordinating all subcontractors and managing the work on site from start to finish. Our experienced team ensures every detail is handled to keep your project moving smoothly — and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
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Step 5: Managing the Process
As the project nears completion, a final punch list is created to address any remaining tasks or small adjustments. This ensures that every detail is finished to your satisfaction and that your remodeled space looks and functions exactly as you envisioned.
We hope this gives you a better sense of what it really takes to deliver a home renovation that’s beautiful, functional, and built to last. If you’re ready to get started — or just want to ask questions — we’d love to hear from you.
Call us at (781) 648-2835 or visit customcontracting.com to learn more.