What is the recommended practice when a change in the project is necessary?

The recommended practice when a change in the project is necessary is to communicate the changes immediately and seek approval from the homeowner. Clear communication is essential in any home improvement project to maintain trust and ensure that all parties are on the same page regarding the scope, budget, and timeline. Seeking approval for changes helps in avoiding misunderstandings and conflicts later in the process, as it ensures that the homeowner is aware of and agrees to any modifications that may impact their expectations or finances.

Keeping changes informal and undocumented could lead to disputes, as there would be no official record of what was agreed upon. Furthermore, proceeding without notifying the homeowner risks creating dissatisfaction or legal issues, especially if the changes significantly affect the project's outcome. Lastly, while consulting with subcontractors may sometimes be necessary for technical aspects of a change, it should not replace the essential step of getting the homeowner's explicit approval. This ensures effective project management and upholds the professional standards of the contracting industry.