Work backward from your needs
Tell your contractor about holidays, travel, and other immovable dates. Ask what can realistically be completed before them rather than assuming a finish date.
Separate the phases
Request a schedule covering design decisions, any approvals, ordering, demolition, installation, and finishing. Ask which deliveries or inspections must happen before the next trade can begin.
Leave room for dependencies
Confirm important materials are available before committing to demolition. Ask how delays will be communicated and who updates the schedule. Plan a temporary cooking area and clarify when water or power interruptions are expected.
