For straight talk about buildings old and new, there’s no better resource than Desiree Lawlor, CEO of Hart Water Conditioning. Poking around in people’s pipes and basements, she sees it all (including snakes!). She knows how houses work, and she also knows the problems that are likely to crop up without mindful care and action. 

Desiree and I sat down to discuss the various trades with whom owners should actively cultivate relationships to stay on top of property maintenance, plan improvements and generally safeguard their investment in the most valuable asset most of us have – our home. 

Here are some takeaway nuggets from our conversation (full version on YouTube @KateWoodWorthPreserving). After reading and watching, let me know what feedback and questions you have – we’ll do a Part 2! We are an open book…

Some of the different trades you’re likely to need:

• A builder or carpenter
• Mason
• Roofer
• Plasterer
• Electrician
• Plumber
• HVAC contractor
• Floor contractor
• Landscape contractor
• Painter  

Depending on the complexity of your project, you may also need a general contractor to coordinate the various trades. Everyone on your team should have specific experience in historic preservation. A historic rehabilitation consultant or architect can help ensure compliance with preservation guidelines and secure any necessary permits or approvals.

Note:  Some trades specialize in building things, others in making repairs and providing ongoing maintenance services. So, for example, you may need more than one plumber!

How to know contractors are a good fit for your project:

• They answer your questions (ask lots!) and use language that anyone can understand
• They ask questions and really want to understand your goals
• They provide references and offer to show you their work
• They have more than expertise, they have a passion for what they do
• They have a back office and/or systems to ensure smooth communication, responsiveness, project tracking and invoicing
• Cost and timeline are generally the LAST things you need to know

Desiree and I end our conversation with some words of encouragement to anyone out there considering a career in trades! Says Desiree, “It’s one of the easiest paths to entrepreneurship that we have in this country.”

To learn more, read the recent study, Understanding and Advancing the Preservation Trades.