Global Home Improvements

Whether you’re planning an addition for a growing family or simply getting new storm windows, finding a competent and reliable contractor is the first step to a successful and satisfying home improvement project.

Your home may be your most valuable financial asset. That’s why it’s important to be cautious when you hire someone to work on it. Home improvement and repair and maintenance contractors often advertise in newspapers, the Yellow Pages, and on the radio and TV. However, don’t consider an ad an indication of the quality of a contractor’s work. Your best bet is a reality check from those in the know: friends, neighbors, or co-workers who have had improvement work done. Get written estimates from several firms. Ask for explanations for price variations. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder.

Don’t Leave Yourself Open to Exploitation

Not all contractors operate within the law. Here are some tip-offs to potential rip-offs. A less than reputable contractor:

• Solicits door-to-door;
• Offers you discounts for finding other customers;
• Just happens to have materials left over from a previous job;
• Only accepts cash payments;
• Asks you to get the required building permits;
• Does not list a business number in the local telephone directory;
• Tells you your job will be a “demonstration;”
• Pressures you for an immediate decision;
• Offers exceptionally long guarantees;
• Asks you to pay for the entire job up-front;
• Suggests that you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows.

Hiring a Contractor

Interview each contractor you’re consider-ing. Here are some questions to ask.

• How long have you been in business? Look for a well-established company and check references thoroughly.
• Are you legally licensed and registered with the state?
• How many similar projects have you completed in the last year? Ask for a list.
• Will my project require planning premission?
• May I have a list of references? The contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients who have projects similar to yours. Ask each how long ago the project was completed and if you can see it. Also, tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.
• Will you be using subcontractors on this project? If yes, ask to meet them, and make sure they have current insurance coverage and licenses, if required. Also ask them if they were paid on time by this contractor.
• What types of insurance do you carry? Contractors should have personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current. Avoid doing business with contractors who don’t carry the appropriate insurance. Otherwise, you’ll be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.

Checking References

Talk with some of the contractors former customers. They can help you decide if a particular contractor is right for you. You may want to ask:

• Can I visit your home to see the completed job?
• Were you satisfied with the project? Was it completed on time?
• Did the contractor keep you informed about the status of the project, and any problems along the way?
• Were there unexpected costs? If so, what were they?
• Did workers show up on time? Did they clean up after finishing the job?
• Would you recommend the contractor?
• Would you use the contractor again? 

Completing the Job: A Checklist

Before you sign off and make the final payment, use this checklist to make sure the job is complete. Check that:

• All work meets the standards spelled out in the contract.
• You have written warranties for materials and workmanship.
• You have proof that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid.
• The job site has been cleaned up and cleared of excess materials, tools and equipment.
• You have inspected and approved the completed work.