I hired a contractor and paid a deposit—Now what? | Working with contractors in the New Hampshire Seacoast
So, you’ve hired a contractor, signed the contract, and paid the deposit for your kitchen or bathroom remodel—what’s next?
You’ve probably heard the horror stories—homeowners hiring contractors, paying a deposit, and then… nothing. No updates, no communication. Days turn into weeks, and doubt starts to creep in. Did I just get ghosted? Will this contractor show up on the start date? Or worse, will they disappear forever and never be heard from again? It’s a scary thought, especially when you’ve trusted someone with your home and hard-earned money.
If you’re worried about this happening to you, you’re not alone. Many homeowners share these concerns after hiring a contractor and paying that first deposit. But the truth is, a reputable contractor will keep you informed throughout the process.
Whether you’ve hired us at Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling or another reputable contractor in the New Hampshire seacoast, knowing what to expect will help ease your concerns.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the typical process and help you understand how a professional contractor should handle communication, timelines, and project updates, so you can feel confident in your remodel. Let’s get started!
How often should I expect to hear from my contractor after I pay a deposit?
Typically, after you’ve signed the contract and paid your deposit, your contractor is hard at work behind the scenes. They’ll be ordering materials, arranging schedules with subcontractors, and pulling the necessary permits. During this time, it’s normal for communication to slow down a bit, simply because there aren’t many visible updates to share. However, that doesn’t mean nothing is happening. Most contractors will touch base once they’ve locked in key details, like when materials are on-site or permits are secured.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we understand that this quieter phase can be a little unsettling, especially when you’re excited to get started. While you may not hear from us right away, we’ll always keep you updated once those critical behind-the-scenes tasks are complete. If at any point you’re feeling unsure or just curious, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to answer your questions and provide peace of mind.
When should I receive a project schedule from my contractor?
You should expect to receive a project schedule that outlines the general timeline, including the start and end dates, fairly early in the process. Most contractors will share a high-level schedule at the time of contract signing, and a more detailed breakdown will follow as they confirm material orders and the availability of tradespeople. This schedule helps you understand the flow of work and know when key milestones will happen.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we believe that clarity from the start is crucial. That’s why we include your project’s start and end dates right in the contract. Once all the moving parts—like materials and permits—are finalized, we’ll provide you with a more detailed schedule. You can access it anytime in your client portal, so you always know exactly what’s happening and when.
What should I do if I don’t hear from my contractor for a while?
It's common to go through periods of less frequent communication after the initial contract signing, especially while your contractor is working on preparations like ordering materials or scheduling workers. However, if you’re feeling out of the loop, there’s no harm in reaching out to ask for an update. Most contractors are happy to reassure you that things are progressing behind the scenes.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we know that silence can feel unsettling, even if everything is on track. We aim to check in with you regularly, but if you haven’t heard from us in a while and have questions, we’re always just a phone call or email away. You can also send us a message in your client portal anytime—we want to make sure you feel supported throughout the process.
Is it normal for there to be a period of no communication after paying a deposit to a contractor?
Yes, it’s very normal for communication to slow down after you’ve paid the deposit, particularly in the weeks leading up to your project. Your contractor is likely busy securing materials, finalizing schedules, and working through permitting. While this can feel like a long waiting period for you, rest assured it’s all part of the process. You’ll typically hear from your contractor again once they have significant updates to share.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we’re aware that waiting can feel like nothing is happening. While there may be periods where updates are fewer, we’ll always touch base when there’s something meaningful to report—whether that’s permit approvals, material arrivals, or just a quick note to say everything’s still on track. And, of course, we’re always available if you have questions during these quieter times.
How much communication should I expect in the weeks leading up to the project start?
As your project start date gets closer, you should expect to hear from your contractor more frequently. Most contractors will update you as they check off key tasks like materials arriving or permits being approved. You may also start receiving details about what to expect on the first day, any preparations you need to make, and confirmation of the final start date.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we make sure you’re never left wondering what’s happening. We aim to check in at least every two weeks during the lead-up to your project, even if it’s just a brief update. We know how exciting—and sometimes nerve-wracking—this stage can be, so we stay in touch to keep you informed and engaged. As your start date approaches, we’ll confirm everything is set and ready to go.
What happens if there’s a delay in starting my remodel?
Delays happen in remodeling for a variety of reasons—material shortages, permit delays, or unforeseen scheduling conflicts with trade partners. A good contractor should notify you as soon as they know a delay is likely to impact your project. The key is clear communication so you can plan accordingly.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we understand how frustrating delays can be, which is why we make it a priority to communicate any potential issues as soon as they arise. If something out of our control delays the project, we’ll keep you informed and work together on a revised plan to keep things on track as much as possible.
Are there any common reasons a remodel might be delayed that I should be aware of?
Yes, remodeling projects can face delays for a variety of reasons, many of which are outside the contractor’s control. The most common causes include:
Material shortages or backorders: With ongoing supply chain issues, it’s not unusual for certain materials to take longer to arrive than expected.
Permitting delays: Some projects require permits from the local government, and approval times can vary, especially during busy periods.
Weather conditions: If your remodel involves exterior work, severe weather can lead to delays.
Scheduling conflicts: Coordinating between different subcontractors or trades can sometimes cause timing issues, especially if one phase of the project takes longer than anticipated.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we do everything we can to anticipate and minimize delays. If there’s an issue with materials or permitting, we’ll keep you informed and discuss options to keep the project moving forward. We believe in being upfront about potential setbacks, so you’ll never be left wondering why things are behind schedule.
Will my contractor notify me in advance of any delays?
Yes, your contractor should notify you in advance if any delays are expected to impact your project timeline. This is crucial for managing expectations and avoiding surprises. Good communication helps everyone stay on the same page and minimizes frustration.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, transparency is key. If there’s even the slightest chance of a delay, you’ll be the first to know. We believe that honest, upfront communication helps maintain trust and ensures you’re always in the loop.
Will my contractor handle pulling all the necessary permits for the project?
In most cases, your contractor will handle securing the necessary permits for your remodeling project, as it’s a key part of ensuring everything is done to code and approved by local authorities. If you’re not sure whether permits are required, or if your contractor is handling them, it’s worth clarifying early on.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, unless you specifically request otherwise, we take care of all the permits required for your project. We’ll keep you updated once permits are approved so that you know everything is ready for the work to begin. We want you to feel confident that all the legal and regulatory steps are in place.
How can I confirm that everything is in place before the work begins?
A good contractor will let you know when key milestones are completed, like when permits are approved or materials are delivered. As the start date approaches, they should confirm that everything is on schedule and ready to go, ensuring you’re not left in the dark.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we’ll give you a heads-up once critical tasks are completed, like when your permits are in place or materials have arrived. About two weeks before the start date, we’ll confirm that everything is ready and remind you of what’s next. We strive to make sure you feel confident and prepared for the project to kick off.
What is the best way to communicate with my contractor during this waiting period?
Every contractor is different, but most will have a preferred method of communication, whether it’s phone, email, or even a project management portal. It’s important to ask your contractor how they prefer to communicate and to establish a rhythm that works for both of you.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we’re flexible when it comes to communication. Whether you prefer to call, email, text, or use our client portal, we’re happy to work in the way that’s most convenient for you. We want you to feel comfortable reaching out at any point, whether you have a quick question or need more detailed information.
Should I expect regular updates, or is it normal to only hear from a contractor close to the start of a project?
In most cases, you’ll hear more frequently from your contractor as the start date approaches, with updates becoming more regular once the project is about to begin. If there’s a long period of silence, it’s a good idea to reach out and check in, but generally, contractors will get in touch when they have significant updates to share.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we make sure there’s never too long of a gap in communication. You can expect updates every couple of weeks leading up to the project, and more frequent communication once the start date gets closer. We’ll let you know when everything is on track and share any necessary information well before the project begins.
Is my deposit secure during the time leading up to the remodel?
Reputable contractors will handle your deposit responsibly, using it only for your project’s costs, such as materials or permit fees. It’s always a good idea to confirm with your contractor how deposits are managed to ensure you feel confident that your money is safe.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we keep your deposit in a dedicated account specifically for project-related costs. We don’t touch these funds until it’s time to purchase materials or cover expenses for your project. This ensures your money is secure and only used for your remodel—nothing else. We take the security of your investment seriously, so you can rest easy knowing your deposit is always safe and accounted for.
What should I do to prepare my home before the contractor arrives?
Most contractors will provide you with a list of preparations to complete before they arrive. This might include clearing the work area of personal items, making arrangements for pets, and preparing for the dust and noise that remodeling brings. A well-prepared home makes the project start smoother for everyone involved.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we’ll give you clear instructions on how to prepare for the project, such as removing personal belongings, fragile items, and anything you want to keep safe from dust and debris. We’ll also remind you to secure pets and prepare for living around construction for a bit. We want to make sure the transition into the remodeling phase is as seamless as possible for you and your family.
How long before the project starts will the contractor confirm the start date?
Most contractors will confirm your start date about one to two weeks in advance. While many contractors stick closely to the schedule provided at contract signing, it’s always a good idea to check in as the start date approaches to ensure everything is still on track.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we maintain a close eye on our schedule, so the date we give you at the contract signing is usually the date we stick to. However, we’ll still confirm with you about two weeks before the start date, just to give you peace of mind and make sure you’re fully prepared.
Will my contractor provide a detailed breakdown of the first phase of work?
Yes, most contractors will give you a breakdown of the first phase of the project, so you know what to expect right from the start. This often includes when demolition will begin, how long it will take, and what tasks will follow.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, you’ll have full access to a detailed project schedule in your client portal, which breaks down each phase of the work. This gives you visibility into every step of the project, so you always know what’s happening and when key milestones will be reached.
What should I do if I have changes or requests before the project begins?
Changes happen, and it’s perfectly okay to have second thoughts or new ideas before the project begins. However, it’s important to communicate any changes to your contractor as soon as possible. Even small changes can have a ripple effect on the timeline, materials, and costs, so the earlier you notify your contractor, the better they can adjust without causing major delays.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we understand that your vision might evolve, and we’re here to help accommodate those changes whenever possible. If you have any requests, just let us know, and we’ll work to incorporate them with minimal disruption to the project. The key is open communication—early notice helps us adjust smoothly and keep everything on track.
Will my contractor need access to my home before the official start date?
In many cases, yes. Contractors may need access to your home a few days before the project starts to drop off materials, set up protective floor coverings, or place equipment like dumpsters or portable toilets. This ensures that everything is ready for a smooth, productive start on the first day of the project.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we’ll coordinate with you in advance to arrange any early access we might need. Whether it’s delivering materials or prepping the work area, we’ll make sure you’re fully informed so there are no surprises when we arrive.
What happens if I need to postpone the start of the project?
If life throws you a curveball and you need to postpone, it’s important to communicate this to your contractor as soon as possible. Delaying a project can have a cascading effect, not only on your schedule but also on the contractor’s other projects. Most contractors understand that delays happen, but the sooner they know, the easier it will be to accommodate the change.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we understand—sometimes unexpected situations come up. Postponing a project can be difficult for everyone involved, so if you absolutely need to reschedule, please let us know as soon as possible. The more notice we have, the better we can minimize disruptions to your project and the others we’re managing.
How can I be sure the contractor has everything they need to start on time?
A professional contractor will ensure that all materials, permits, and labor are ready to go before the project begins. That said, it’s still a good idea to check in a few days before the start date to confirm that everything is on track and that your contractor has everything they need to hit the ground running.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, one of the benefits of hiring us as your general contractor is that we handle all the logistics for you. From securing materials to coordinating with trades, we make sure everything is ready to go so that your project can start on time. We’ll also reach out to confirm everything is in place, so you have peace of mind before we begin.
What should I expect on the first day of the project?
The first day of a remodel is always exciting, but it can feel a bit chaotic. You can expect trucks to arrive, workers to bring in tools and materials, and protective coverings to be placed on your floors and surfaces. Demolition might begin right away, and the house will likely be noisier than usual. While it might seem overwhelming, this is a sign that your project is officially underway, and your space is about to start its transformation!
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we know that the first day can feel like organized chaos, but we’ve got it all under control. Our team will arrive ready to hit the ground running, setting up floor protection, prepping the work area, and starting demolition. But don’t worry, we’ll walk you through what’s happening so you know exactly what to expect and can feel confident that everything is going according to plan.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a clearer idea of what to expect after hiring a contractor, we hope you’re feeling more at ease about the remodeling process. Whether you’re still in the research phase or ready to take the next step, having a contractor who communicates clearly and consistently is key to a smooth, stress-free project.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we pride ourselves on keeping our clients informed every step of the way. From the moment you sign the contract to the final touches on your remodel, you’ll never be left wondering what’s going on. If you’re ready to start your kitchen or bathroom transformation—or just want to learn more about how we handle our projects—contact us today. We’d love to help bring your vision to life, with transparency and trust as our foundation.
