Teton Valley cabins have surprises. 1980s construction with no vapor barrier, undersized septic, dated electric, sloping foundations. Here’s the checklist to run before you commit to a remodel.
Pre-design checklist
- Confirm property lines and setbacks. Many older cabins are technically over the line.
- Get a septic inspection. 1,000-gallon tanks built for a 2-bedroom won’t pass for a 4-bedroom expansion.
- Test well capacity. 5 GPM minimum for a remodeled home.
- Check HOA design review timing. Teton Springs, Targhee, and most subdivisions need 30–90 days.
- Get a structural pre-inspection. Look for foundation settlement, undersized framing, fire damage.
- Verify electrical capacity. Many cabins are 100-amp — a remodel often forces a 200-amp upgrade ($4K–$8K).
- Test for asbestos and lead. Required if built before 1980. $400–$900 test, can save $20K in surprises.
- Photo-document everything. Before demo, before contractor walks. Protects you in disputes.
Decisions that should happen before you sign
- Will the cabin be a rental, second home, or primary?
- What’s your decision-making cadence — weekly calls, monthly site visits?
- Who has signature authority on change orders?
- What’s your budget contingency? (15% minimum, 20% on cabins pre-1990.)
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