Frequently Asked Questions
CAN I SHOP ON MY OWN?
You have hired Jen Tennill and her associates to complete the vision for your space that you approved. We ask that you do not select items without approval because items that you select may not fit the approved design plan. In the event that you will be required to make purchases on your own, the Designer will provide you with the detailed specifications.
DO YOU WORK WITH CONTRACTORS?
We are an insured GC and prefers to use the trusted subcontractors that we have already vetted and worked with in the past. We have found that this ensures the smoothest possible process, keeps your project on schedule and provides the best end result for the Owner. Of course, we will be happy to work with other contractors at the Owner’s request, however Jen Tennill Interiors will not be able to guarantee any work provided by contractors outside of our circle of trusted professionals. It will also increase the cost of your project management fees.
HOW DO YOU CHARGE?
Most of our contracts are flat fees and we have a range we charge based on the scope of the project. Occasionally we do charge by the hour and that rate is $175 per hour. The exact fees for your project will be outlined in your Letter of Agreement and Design Contract.
WHEN ARE PAYMENTS DUE?
The non-refundable design fee is due at signing of the Letter of Agreement and is required to secure your spot on our calendar. We frequently have a wait list for our services. At the time the design proposal is accepted 100% of the cost of furnishings will be due, as well as a 50% deposit for project fees and any labor contracted by us. Midway through the project, another draw of 30% will be due with the remaining 20% due upon completion.
WHAT IF I DECIDE MID-PROJECT I WANT TO ADD MORE ROOMS?
Increasing the scope is not a problem, however additional proposals and approval will be required and it may affect the timeline for completion.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SPECIFICATION & PROPOSAL?
A Specification is a document that I provide which details the items and design for you to purchase yourself. You will pay the vendors directly and be 100% responsible for the project. A Proposal is a document where I am presenting design selections and requesting payment from you so that I can purchase, receive and install the project on your behalf.
HOW ARE ITEMS DELIVERED?
Our policy is to perform one large installation of all your items. This includes all furniture and accessories purchased. Larger items purchased by Jen Tennill Interiors may be received into a licensed, bonded, insured and climate-controlled warehouse to await installation. Owners are responsible for all shipping, storage, & delivery costs.
WHAT ADDITIONAL COSTS CAN I EXPECT?
While we do our best in the proposal to anticipate all costs associated with implementing the design, occasionally costs such as storage, shipping, installation or unexpected labor do happen. Any such costs will be communicated by Jen Tennill Interiors to you for approval as soon as they are known.
HOW LONG DO PROJECTS NORMALLY LAST?
This depends on the scope of the project. A project timeline will be provided by Jen Tennill Interiors in order to give Owner a reasonable idea of what to expect. Pre-COVID a typical timeline from acceptance of a design proposal to completion was about 8-10 weeks, depending on the size of the project. Currently due to supply chain issues we are seen 2-3 times that in some cases, however everyone involved: designer, Owner, vendors and contractors are expected to respect the Project timeline and not cause any additional delays in the Project.
CAN I CHANGE MY MIND AFTER AN ORDER IS PLACED?
Most items cannot be cancelled or refunded. In the event that a refund can be attained you may cancel the order and receive a refund for the cost of the item minus the purchasing fee and any other applicable fees. Custom orders are nonreturnable. Requests for returns and cancellations will be subject to change fees and billed hourly. Design Fees and reimbursable expenses are non-refundable, even when associated with a return or cancellation.
WHAT IF I have concerns about an item?
Please bring these to our attention immediately and we will discuss your concerns and if necessary, find a more desirable solution. The decision about what is purchased and installed in your home is ultimately yours.
WHAT should i BUDGET?
Having a clear budget is very important for the project running smoothly and for your expectations to be met but the budget can vary widely depending on the scope and your personal preferences. Jen Tennill Interiors will help you develop a resonable budget, however in our experience it is best to plan for at least a $10,000 investment per room plus fees. For most remodels, at least a $35,000 budget will be necessary. If you are needing to invest a little less we can work with you on some options that may not involve a full service design project.