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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 with the government Consumer Affair Office and the Better Business Bureau to ensure there is no adverse file on record for the contractor.

Ask to see a copy of the contractor's certification of insurance of 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 remodeling 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 that 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 lender approve the contractor. 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.

A professional remodeling contractor is familiar with financing options available and can help. Research various sources of funding to compare individual qualification guidelines, interest rates, terms and tax considerations.

Think About Design and Function

Design and function should be foremost in your mind if you're thinking of adding a room or converting on 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 your 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 to 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 substantial 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 low 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 sire the time period for the warranty is specified.

A binding arbitration clause is also a good inclusion in the event a disagreement occurs. Arbitration may enable you to resolve disputes without costly litigation.

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. Both parties should sign the amendment.

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.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry brings together people who work in and with the remodeling industry, belonging and growing from one another. As professionals, we create an exceptional experience for the remodeling consumer.

2030 North Black Horse Pike Williamstown, NJ 08094 Phone: (856) 875-0335 Fax: (856) 875-1948