June 02, 2025
Remodeling your home is like starting a new chapter. You get to reimagine your space to truly fit your life. But even the dreamiest projects can come with a few surprise detours. At DeLeers Construction, we’ve seen it all. We know that most remodeling hiccups can be managed or even avoided entirely with the right preparation, communication, and team.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common challenges homeowners run into during a renovation, and how to get ahead of them.
The Most Common Renovation Setbacks
Permitting Delays and Red Tape
In Wisconsin, as in many parts of the country, obtaining permits can be a slow process. Municipalities each have their own regulations, and timelines vary. Permits are often required for structural changes, plumbing, electrical work, and more.
Permit approvals can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. If an application is incomplete or a zoning issue arises, it can push the project back significantly. According to the National Association of Home Builders, permitting delays are one of the top reasons residential projects get off schedule.
Choose a contractor who’s experienced with local codes and processes. At DeLeers, we handle permitting on behalf of our clients, starting that process early so you don’t have to stress about paperwork or fine print.
Material and Labor Shortages
Supply chain disruptions and skilled labor shortages continue to affect the construction industry. Certain products, like windows, cabinetry, or specialty flooring, can take longer than expected to arrive. The demand for skilled tradespeople, like electricians, plumbers, and finish carpenters, can also cause scheduling bottlenecks, especially during the busy building season.
Each year, American contractors face difficulty finding skilled labor and deal with widespread material delays. To get ahead of this, order your materials as early as possible. Work with a contractor who has reliable supplier relationships and labor networks.
Design Changes Mid-Project
It happens more often than you might think! The tile that looked perfect online feels too bold in person. Or a homeowner realizes they want more storage in a room after the plans are finalized. While design tweaks are totally normal, they can lead to delays and extra costs if they happen after construction begins.
To avoid this, invest time upfront in design planning and walk through the details with your contractor. Ask questions. Review renderings. And if something changes, trust a team that can pivot gracefully without losing momentum.
How to Prepare for (and Avoid) These Issues
Build a Time Cushion into Your Schedule
One of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner is to expect the unexpected. Build a little extra time into your project timeline so that small hiccups don’t cause major stress. Whether it’s a weather delay (Wisconsin winters!) or a backordered fixture, having a buffer helps keep the project on track without derailing your plans.
Have Backup Material Options
When selecting finishes and fixtures, consider identifying a “Plan B” material in case your first choice is delayed or discontinued. Many suppliers will allow you to place items on hold or alert you of lead times in advance.
Communicate Frequently with Your Team
Regular check-ins keep everyone on the same page. A good contractor will keep you updated at every stage, whether it’s permitting progress, delivery timelines, or on-site work. The more you communicate, the fewer surprises you'll encounter.
Working with a Contractor Who Plans for Contingencies
Experience Matters in Managing Challenges
You want a contractor who’s seen the roadblocks before and knows how to navigate them. An experienced team can foresee common delays and build strategies to work around them. At DeLeers, our decades of experience across residential remodeling projects mean we come prepared.
Reducing Surprises Through Preconstruction Planning
Before the first hammer swings, a lot of behind-the-scenes planning goes into a successful project. Preconstruction planning includes finalizing the design, securing permits, sourcing materials, and developing a timeline.
We work with clients through every stage to ensure expectations are aligned and nothing is left to chance. That proactive approach is part of what makes a remodel with DeLeers smooth, predictable, and even fun.
Thinking about your next home remodel? Let’s talk. We’d love to help you build what’s next.
Message or call our experts at 920-347-5830 with any questions on hiring professionals for your home renovation or rebuilding!
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