What a Pre‑Construction Agreement Is -and Why It Helps You Avoid Remodel Headaches
Remodeling your home is a big investment, and like any important project, the way you start sets the tone for everything that follows. At Black Opal Construction, we begin many of our projects with a pre-construction agreement. It's a step that helps ensure clarity, accuracy, and momentum from the beginning.
But what exactly is a pre-construction agreement, and why do we recommend it for certain jobs?
What Is a Pre-Construction Agreement?
A pre‑construction agreement is a short, paid planning phase completed before you sign a full construction contract. In this stage we:
Define the vision – refine layout, finishes, and every must‑have on your list.
Set the true price – gather firm bids and nail down a realistic, fixed budget.
Map the game plan – schedule trades, permits, and any engineering up front.
Because this work happens first, you gain time to make smart decisions without pressure, start the project with a clear design and a locked‑in cost, and roll into construction with real momentum—no guessing, no last‑minute surprises, just a smooth build from day one.
Why It’s Useful
Catered design time – we work collaboratively to discuss all your needs and wants and fit them into the layout. We take our time in the beginning to dream up and plan out exactly how your project will look and function, so by the end you know exactly what you are getting.
You receive a real, accurate price – not an inflated, contingency estimate.
Real momentum before the contract is even signed – we have already done the mental heavy lifting ahead of time in the pre-con period; the project schedule will be complete, the project itself planned, and all we have to do is build it!
A clear picture before commitment – we have a plan for the full project, a timeline, and vision, before you have to sign the entire final construction contract.
What’s Included in the Pre-Construction Process?
Every remodeling project is different, but here’s what we typically include:
On-site walkthrough and measurements
Collaborative design planning
Finish and material selection support
Subcontractor walkthroughs for accurate pricing
Engineering or architect coordination (if needed)
Final scope of work, budget, and construction timeline
We bill this phase based on estimated hours, and any unused time is credited toward your final contract.
How Long Does the Pre-Con Phase Take?
The duration of the pre-con phase depends on the size and complexity of the project. Some projects will only take a couple of weeks, while others will take longer depending on the number of trades involved, whether we require engineers, and/or how many design revisions are required.
Throughout this phase, we provide weekly updates so you’re never left guessing.
Why It’s Worth It
Home remodeling in Southern Oregon is full of variables—older homes, weather, unique layouts—and a pre-construction agreement gives us the space to plan well, not react under pressure.
By the time construction begins, we’ve already done the heavy lifting mentally. You’ll have clear expectations, a smart plan, and confidence in what comes next.
Thinking About a Remodel?
If you're planning a renovation in Ashland, Talent, Phoenix, or Medford and want a smoother, more predictable experience, a pre-construction agreement might be the best first step.
Want to know if it’s right for your project? [Contact us here] and we’ll walk you through it.
