"Second Step: Kitchen Remodeling" is the second of a series of articles to help home owners know more about the process of remodeling a Kitchen.

Once the work explained in "First Step: Kitchen Remodeling" has been completed, you can move on to the next or second step of the process, "Second Step: Kitchen Remodeling". Now, that you have learned about what your responsibilities and the general contractor's responsibilities are you can proceed to the next step which is the design of your new kitchen . This step is very important because it is through this step that the general contractor can actually bid on your project.

You need to hire a designer and/or an architect that can provide you with design and building plans. These plans must include any structural work such as removing a load bearing wall or installing any post that will require concrete footing. The plan must also include a floor plan that will show the exact location of your kitchen cabinets, sinks, faucets, lighting, doors/windows, kitchen islands and appliances. The more detailed you make your plans the less mistakes would be made during the construction phase. Detailed and complete plans also help the general contractor to provide you with exact pricings. Make sure that the dimensions used in your full kitchen remodeling plans are exact and in accordance to the items/fixtures you will be purchasing. You will also need these plans to communicate your kitchen remodeling project to your city or county building authorities when you go to apply for a kitchen remodeling permit.

In most cities and counties a construction or remodeling permit is required when making structural changes to your home. Permits are also required for plumbing work, electrical work, and HVAC work. These city or county requirements are for your safety. Make sure you are abiding with the regulations set forth. In addition, once the city or county issues you permits, they send their inspectors several times during the construction phase to make sure that the contractor's work is in accordance with the building code. This provides you with another layer of protection. Some general contractors can work with you to provide you with these plans and even would work with the city or county to obtain your permits. However, it is advisable to use another company (designer/architect) for the design and planning work for your full kitchen remodel. You may work with a designer/architect that can also get your permits for you if you do not want to deal with the city or county.

Once your plans are drawn to your satisfaction and approved by the city or county you can start the next step in your full kitchen remodeling process which will be hiring a general contractor .

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