Our Approach

We Treasure Our Clients

Clark Smith Construction, Inc. is a Minnesota remodeling company built by word-of-mouth. Keeping our commitment today to build great additions and breathtaking remodels, on time and within budget, means we’ll be able to continue providing our services tomorrow.

We Listen Closely to Our Clients’ Needs

We are here to serve our clients and help them to bring their dreams to life. The first step is understanding the client’s vision. The second step is making it a reality. Along the way, we remain in close communication to ensure that we are meeting the client’s expectations.

We Make It as Painless as Possible

Remodeling can be disruptive. Problems can arise. We shield our clients from the stresses as much as we can, so they can continue their daily routines throughout the remodeling process and feel satisfied in the end with their experience.

How to Choose a Remodeler

The following is a list of points to research when choosing a remodeling contractor. Based on major remodeling and renovation concerns, the list will help you determine a contractor’s reputation, quality of work, project scheduling, and experience.

Call the Minnesota Department of Commerce (651) 296-4026 to verify that the remodeler is licensed by the State of Minnesota. The license number should appear on all printed material supplied by the contractor.
Request a list of recently completed projects. Make sure the remodeler provides you with a diverse portfolio, and doesn’t merely specialize in one or two areas of remodeling. The remodeler should include at least two projects for consideration that are similar to your own.
Take the time to interview potential remodelers rather than simply soliciting bids. The interview process will allow you to determine whether you and the remodeler communicate well, whether his or her bid reflects your needs and expectations, and whether the remodeler is an individual you will feel comfortable having in and around your home.

Questions to Ask

Contact a few of the remodeler’s references. Asking them the questions below will let you address your concerns and help you find the best contractor for your project.

Was the remodeler responsive to your needs and special considerations?
Did the remodeler enhance the project with appropriate design recommendations?
Was the project executed in a timely manner? Was consideration given to your daily living habits? Did project managers schedule subcontractors promptly? Was there consistency between the project manager and the lead carpenter?
Did the remodeler provide comprehensive specifications and contract documentations? Did he or she make proper use of change order procedure, and inform you of any additional costs before making changes?
Did the remodeler take time to explain his or her design or building procedures?
Did the subcontractors and managers communicate effectively with you and among themselves? Were subcontractors courteous and respectful of your living space?
What types of warranties does the remodeler offer? What is the duration and extent of the coverage?
Were living areas outside the remodeling project area protected from potential damage? Were trash and demolition debris regularly removed? Did the crew leave the job site in an acceptable condition on a daily basis? Did the company provide the means and equipment necessary for the cleanup?
What is your overall opinion of the project? Did the final product meet your expectations? Did the project stick to your budget? If not, what were the variables involved and who was responsible for the discrepancy?
Would you recommend this remodeler to your friends and family?
Ask to visit the referent’s job site to experience the project yourself.

Review the Contract

Plan your project.

Determine both the repairs you need and the improvements you would like. Now think further ahead and consider possible future needs and opportunities. Would you eventually like a larger bedroom, a refurbished bath, or a modern kitchen? Professional remodeling contractors can help you plan by outlining options and discussing improvements you can make within your budget for the time being, as well as by helping to set the stage for future projects.

Outline your budget.

Think about what you can afford to borrow, keeping in mind that the improvements you make should enhance your property value in the long run. Establishing a realistic budget right away will help you to make sound choices throughout the planning process, and will enable a remodeling contractor or other design professional to prepare and execute a project that’s both appropriate and effective.

Determine the scope of the contractor’s duties.

Consider adding provisions for protection of your household goods surrounding the job site and for daily clean-up. These “extras” will likely raise the cost of your job slightly, since they entail additional labor costs for the contractor, but they will save you the inconvenience of a mess in your home, as well as unnecessary worry about the condition of your personal property.

Request specifications on all project materials.

Ask your contractor for a list of all project materials and their specifications in your contract. The list should include the size, color, weight, model, brand name, and quantity of each product.

Ask to see credentials.

Make sure your professional contractor provides certification of insurance covering workers’ compensation, property damage, and personal liability. Ask to see a Certificate of Insurance, the document that outlines your contractor’s insurance coverage.

Think before signing any contract.

If a contract appears incomplete, or if you see anything printed that looks different from what you have agreed upon, don’t sign it. Consider whether you are getting what you really want, whether you know the cost of each item, and whether the price seems fair based on the outlined tasks and materials. Make sure the terms and lengths of any warranties are clearly indicated. Take the time to understand everything you read, and ask for clarification wherever necessary. Request a copy for your records.

Document all contract modifications.

Be sure to put into writing any and all alterations to your original agreement. If the scope or complexity of your remodeling project changes after work has already begun, the amendment or change order should be signed by all participating parties before the adjustments are made.

Codes and Permits

Most cities, towns, and counties establish building codes that may differ considerably from one jurisdiction to another. A building permit is generally required whenever structural work is involved, or upon modification of the basic use of domestic space. For example, finishing a basement (or even a portion thereof) will require a building permit in most jurisdictions because the room’s primary use will change from storage to “livable” space.

Helpful Tips

Every project begins with a budget. Before embarking on your remodeling endeavor, it is important to carefully assess financing. Then you can begin the planning process.

Choose a contractor with whom you feel comfortable — someone you can envision coming into your home daily for the duration of the project. If you are obtaining multiple bids, be sure to compare “apples to apples” and assess the level and type of service to be provided as well as the bottom-line cost.

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