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Durham Basement Solutions

Durham, NC
4.4 (4 reviews)

Home Renovation

Licensed Insured Business

How to Hire a Home Renovation Contractor in North Carolina

Home renovation restores and updates a home without redesigning it: new flooring and paint, updated fixtures and trim, replacing worn windows or cabinets, and repairing damage. It is common when buying an older house, preparing to sell or bringing a dated home back to good condition while keeping the existing floor plan.

What to check before you hire

  • Ask the contractor to walk the whole house and prioritize safety and building-envelope issues, such as roof leaks or electrical hazards, before cosmetic upgrades.
  • For homes built before 1978, confirm they are lead-safe certified under the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting rule.
  • Ask how they test and handle materials that could contain asbestos in older homes before disturbing them.
  • Get a room-by-room scope in writing so you can compare quotes accurately.
  • Confirm which items require permits, such as window replacements, electrical updates or water heater changes.

Questions to ask every contractor

  • Which repairs should come first to protect the rest of the work?
  • Can the renovation be phased so we can live in the house?
  • How do you handle hidden damage discovered once walls or floors are opened?
  • Which finishes will you supply, and which can we buy ourselves?

Frequently asked questions

Should I renovate before selling?

Focused repairs and fresh finishes often help a house show better, but large projects may not pay back at sale. A local real estate agent can tell you which updates buyers in your area expect.

Renovating an older home: what surprises are common?

Outdated wiring, old plumbing, hidden water damage and materials such as lead paint or asbestos are common in older homes. Budget a contingency and have the contractor inspect before finalizing scope.

What is the difference between renovation and remodeling?

Renovation updates and repairs the existing space. Remodeling changes the layout or structure. Many projects combine both, but knowing which you need helps you hire the right contractor.