You can
now view our extensive
photo albums of past and current work on-line!
Select
a Professional, Reliable, Remodeling Contractor
Finding
a qualified professional remodeling contractor doesn't have
to be a difficult task. By following these guidelines you will
make the selection process easier and be better prepared to
make an informed decision that best suites your needs.
Employ a contractor with an established business in your area.
Local firms can be checked through references from past customers
in your community. Local remodelers are compelled to perform
satisfactory work for their business to survive.
Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed
and or bonded. Contact your state or local licensing agencies
to ensure the contractor meets all requirements.
Check the remodeling contractor with the government Consumer
Affair Office and the Better Business Bureau to ensure there
is no adverse file on record.
Ask to see a copy of the contractor's certification of insurance
and for the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage.
Most states require a contractor to carry worker's compensation,
property damage and personal liability insurance.
Make sure the contractor's insurance coverage meets all the
minimum requirements. If you solicit bids from several different
contractors, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and
quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any
bid that is substantially lower than the others.
Proper
Planning is Important
Think your project through from start to finish. Careful planning
of your home improvement projects will enable you to update your
home, increase the value of your investment and customize your
living space — all for a lot less than the cost of a new home.
Look over your property carefully. What repairs are needed? What
improvements would you like to make? Think ahead and determine
your future needs. Professional remodeling contractors can help
you in your planning by outlining options and discussing the improvements
you can make within your budget.
Be sure to review your homeowner's insurance policy and make adjustments
for the added value of the work being done.
Financing
Your Remodeling Project
There are various financing plans available to homeowners.
Among the most popular is the equity line of credit which bases
the loan amount on the equity in your home.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has loans specifically
for home improvements. They are available through many banks and
lending institutions. The FHA, however, requires the contractor
be approved by the lender. The FHA does not guarantee the contractor's
work.
Some institutions will allow you to borrow against the anticipated
equity in your home once your remodeling project is complete.
Think
About Design and Function
Design and function should be foremost in your mind if you're
thinking of adding a room or converting an existing room.
When planning a larger, more complicated project give thought
to details such as: where you want electrical outlets, telephone
jacks and cable hook-ups located: the type of lighting required:
your current and future storage needs: and whether you want to
include luxury items. These details will enable your home improvement
to better suit your needs and lifestyle.
A professional remodeling contractor should be consulted about
design and function of any remodeling project. He or she can also
help you with time and money-saving hints.
Comply
With Local Codes and Permits
Building codes have been established by most cities, towns and
countries. They vary considerably from one jurisdiction to another.
A building permit generally is required whenever structural work
is involved or when the basic living area of the home is to be
changed.
A professional who works in your city or town every day will know
the local requirements.
A
Well Written Contract in Essential
Be sure the contract includes the contractor's name, address,
phone and license number (if applicable).
Detail what the contractor will and will not do.
Your contractor should detail a list of materials for the project
in your contract. This includes size, color, model, brand name
and product.
The contract should include the approximate start date and completion
dates.
Study all required plans carefully. Insist that you approve them
and that they are identified in your written contract before any
work begins.
Federal law requires a contractor to give you written notice of
your right to, without penalty, cancel a contract within three
business days of signing it, provided it was solicited at some
place other than the contractor's place of business or appropriate
trade premises your home, for instance, or has financing provision.
Make sure financial terms are understood and spelled out in the
contract. The total price, payment schedule, and any cancellation
penalty should be clear.
A warranty covering materials and workmanship for a minimum of
one year should be written into the contract. The warranty must
be identified as either "full" or "limited."
The name and address of the party who will honor the warranty
(contractor, distributor or manufacturer) must be identified.
Make sure the time period for the warranty is specified.
Thoroughly review the entire contract and be certain you understand
in before signing it.
Consider the scope of the project and make sure all items you've
requested are included. If you do not see a specific item in the
contract, consider in not included. Never sign an incomplete contract.
Always keep a copy of the final document for your records.
Working
With Professionals
Before work begins, ask your contractor what inconveniences
may occur while the project is underway and plan for them accordingly.
Be sure your contractor is aware of vacations or special events
so that he or she may schedule appropriately.
Move personal property from construction areas and declare all
work zones off-limits to children and pets.
Be sure to put all changes in writing if your remodeling project
is modified while work is being done. The amendment should be
signed by both parties.
Keep a job file including contract, plans, specifications, invoices,
change orders and all correspondence with the contractor.
Request a contractor's Affidavit of Final Release be provided
to you at the time you make final payment and a final waiver of
mechanic's lien. This is your assurance that you will not be liable
for any third-party claims for nonpayment of materials or subcontractors.
Choose
a Course of Action
Depending on your needs and the size complexity of your intended
remodeling project, there are several different options for you
to explore before finalizing your plans. Attempt to define which
of the following alternatives represents the best approach for
your project.
The
General Contractor
Many home improvements may not require professional design services
and can best be handled by an experienced contractor. Again,
be sure to deal with a professional. Even small jobs need careful
planning as their successful completion is important to you.
The Design/Build Contractor
Design/Build is a concept developed to benefit the homeowner
with their (his or her) remodeling project by providing both
quality design and construction services within the same company.
A design/build contractor will be able to see your project through
from start to finish, keeping design, engineering and budget
in mind.
The Architect
Major remodeling projects require construction drawings to define
contracts and permits procurement. If your professional remodeler
does not provide design services, you can use a professionally
trained architect. It is best to work with an architect experienced
in remodeling, he or she will be more sensitive to the special
challenges that remodeling represents.
Tel:
978-887-2587