Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get a permit for my project?expand_more: Typically, yes. We rarely come across municipalities that don’t require a permit for the larger remodeling projects that we provide such as bathrooms, kitchens, decks, and basements. We take care of getting all the paperwork and inspections that are required for your project.

If your project is fairly simple (more of just a facelift of finishes), you may not need a permit. The Central Illinois region is very diverse with building codes which means that we deal with over 40 different building departments and the best way to find out is to call and ask your specific city or township building department.

Scary thing is that several townships in Central Illinois that don’t have any building code enforcement of required minimum building codes (make sure whoever hire for your remodeling project doesn’t take advantage of you and your property due to the lack of code enforcement in these areas).

Important note: In these areas with no code enforcement, we will always abide by the currently adopted State of Illinois of IRC building code. Giving you peace of mind that we always do what’s best for your property.
Do I need to move out of my house during the remodeling?expand_more: Not necessarily, although renovations can get messy and noisy. Many of our clients choose to live in their home during remodeling. This is especially true if your project is in a specific area of your home, like a kitchen, bathroom, or basement where the mess can be segmented away from your living space.

Our clients find that our team of professional tradesmen are very courteous. However, keep in mind that if your project is extensive, it may become more practical for you to temporarily move out.

Let’s discuss your specific situation prior to scheduling your project and go from there.
Is there a difference between an estimate and a proposal?expand_more: Estimate: This is a rough range of the costs that you’ll incur during your project. It will likely change as the design and your material selections are refined. This gives the client a better sense of how much they should set aside for their project before we move forward to nail down the exact specifications of their project.

Proposal: This is a detailed price which is typically based on visits to our client’s home. It will include the exact design plans, labor and building material costs, and a detailed project scope. Our staff and our client’s will both sign off on this proposal before any work takes place.
Should I budget for additional costs beyond the proposal price?expand_more: This can be a tricky question, but we always advise our customers to set aside additional funds beyond the anticipated cost. Unforeseen issues, including bad framework, outdated wiring, and rotting wood can result in additional costs beyond those outlined in the proposal.

We always try to limit these expenses and predict these problem areas well in advance. However, issues can arise beyond our control that need our immediate attention. No matter what may happen, our team will do everything we can to “make it right”.
Should I get more than one estimate before making a decision?expand_more: Comparing different estimates can certainly help, but judging service, craftsmanship, and customer service can be tough.

We always advise homeowners, whether they choose True Craft Remodelers or another company, to only hire the contractor that you feel the most comfortable with. Remember, no matter who you choose, these individuals will be in your home on a daily basis, so you must completely trust them.
You keep talking about starting with a budget for my project, why?expand_more: We have designed some pretty amazing spaces and we can for your project, but if your budget doesn’t meet those great ideas, we will be wasting both of our time. By starting with a realistic budget, you allow us to design based on both your need and your budget.

We have many years of experience, by being candid about your budget it allows us to come up with value driven budget ideas. It’s very normal not to know what a realistic budget should be for your project, let’s talk and we can help you get a better idea what money you should set aside.

Check out our Kitchen and Bath Remodel Costs

Which areas in Central Illinois do you service?expand_more: We service most of Central Illinois, including Decatur, Mt. Zion, Mattoon, Warrenburg, Macon, and Springfield Illinois. Contact us to see if you are in our area!
Do you provide a free estimate?expand_more: Yes, our initial consultation is free of charge because we understand that it’s really hard to get an idea of how much your project will cost on your own.

After our first meeting (which typically lasts about 30-45 minutes), we will provide you with a “Budget Estimate”. This estimate doesn’t get into too many of the small details of your project, but will give you an idea of cost on a high level before going through the next step of the process. The next step is usually signing a design agreement and making all the material selections, before creating a proposal with a detailed scope of work.
Can you create the design and drawings for my project?expand_more: It depends. We use Softplan software to design projects when working within the original footprint of the house, like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. If you plan to build a new home or addition, we do have architects that we partner with to help with design and draft all the necessary drawings.
Will you do our project if we purchase the materials?expand_more: Unfortunately, we do not do projects without providing the products ourselves. We have done this in the past but have had many issues with products that have come damaged or we aren’t used to installing them.

We rely on our partnerships with our vendors to help with damaged products, unique installations, and specialized product information.

Additionally, homeowners supplying materials themselves also complicates the warranty process for your project. If a product supplied by you fails, the labor costs to fix the issue or issues it may have caused would be the homeowner’s (your) responsibility.
Can I select the specific products for the project?expand_more: Yes. We utilize several suppliers to help with making key material choices such as cabinetry, tile, countertops & hardwood flooring. We also partner with local vendors and utilize their showrooms for other product selections.
Why do you require a phone conversation before we meet?expand_more: We use email and text communication a lot through the process of a project but, we believe the first conversation should be done over the phone. Contact us to get started.

This allows both of us to determine whether or not this is a good fit. There are some projects that don’t fit our company profile and process and we would rather have a conversation first, to make sure not to waste your time with a meeting.
When are you available to meet for an appointment?expand_more: We are typically available for in-home meetings, Monday through Thursday 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m..

We also have limited evening availability, Monday through Thursday and set aside time on Friday mornings for appointments as well.

We do not set appointments from Friday afternoon through the weekend. We believe that dedicated weekend time with family and friends is important for a healthy personal and work life.

You can visit our Contact page to schedule a free consultation.
Do you accept credit card payments or have financing?expand_more: We now offer financing through Hearth!

We want to make sure we keep costs as low as possible for our customers and also accept cash or check.

We currently do not accept credit card payments. We are exploring the possibility of adding credit card payments in the future. Ask in our initial consultation to learn about our payment options.
Do you guarantee your work?expand_more: Yes. We have a three-year warranty on workmanship. Our workmanship conforms to the guidelines stated in the NAHB Residential Construction Performance Guidelines.

WHERE WE WORK

True Craft Remodelers serves Central Illinois and surrounding areas.

Not sure if we service your area? Get in touch today!

Our Service Area

Decatur
Mt. Zion
Forsyth
Shelbyville
Sullivan
Springfield

Mattoon
Taylorville
Warrensburg
Moweaqua
Macon

Your Questions About Central Illinois Home Remodeling Answered

COMMON REMODELING FAQS

FAQS ABOUT TRUE CRAFT REMODELERS

WHERE WE WORK

Contact Us Today!