A Homeowner’s Guide to Using Buildertrend

How to stay informed, stay connected, and stay confident through your build.

If you’re starting a renovation or home addition in Virginia Beach, transparency and communication matter just as much as craftsmanship. That’s why we use Buildertrend, a client-facing project management platform that keeps everything—updates, schedules, photos, approvals—in one place.

Here’s how to make the most of it as a Tidewater Structures client.

1. Getting Started

Once your contract is signed, you’ll receive an invitation to create your Buildertrend account. Just follow the link, set your password, and you’re ready to access your personal project dashboard.

2. Your Project Dashboard

The dashboard is your home base. This is where you’ll find:

• Project updates

• Your schedule

• Messages

• Documents

• Progress photos

Think of it as your construction command center.

3. Track Your Schedule in Real Time

Your Buildertrend schedule shows:

• Upcoming work

• Daily tasks

• Milestones

• Inspections

• Estimated completion dates

No guessing. No waiting on callbacks. Everything is updated as we go.

4. Communicate Directly with Your Team

Use the built-in messaging tool to ask questions, leave comments, or respond to updates. All communication stays organized inside the platform so nothing gets lost.

5. All Your Documents in One Place

Buildertrend stores:

• Contracts

• Permits

• Design plans

• Invoices

• Change orders

Access what you need, when you need it—on desktop or mobile.

6. See Daily Progress Through Photos

We upload photos of the work as it happens so you can track progress and give feedback. It’s the next best thing to being on-site every day.

7. Review & Approve Change Orders

If a scope change pops up, you’ll see:

• What’s changing

• Why it’s changing

• Updated pricing

Review, approve, or ask questions right in the platform.

8. Keep Tabs on Your Budget

Inside the Financials tab, you can view:

• Invoices

• Payments

• Cost updates

• Upcoming charges

Everything is transparent—no surprises.

9. Stay Connected with the Mobile App

The Buildertrend mobile app gives you on-the-go access to:

• Messaging

• Photos

• Schedules

• Approvals

Perfect for busy homeowners or clients who travel.

10. Training & Support

Buildertrend offers tutorials, FAQs, and live support. And of course—you can always reach out to us with questions.

Your Project at Your Fingertips

Buildertrend helps you stay informed, organized, and confident throughout your construction project — whether it’s a home addition in Virginia Beach or a commercial renovation across Hampton Roads.

The more you use it, the smoother your experience will be. And we’re here to help every step of the way.