Whether it’s fixing up a kitchen, adding a half bathroom or performing a full-gut rehab there are many things to consider before taking on a renovation project; and no matter how many times you “think you’ve got it covered” nine times out of ten, you’ve got a hole in your plan.
Any contractor you hire must have insurance; must have references; and you need to see proof! You see, trust can be a dangerous thing in home rehab and repair jobs while knowledge is strength. Don't get me wrong...there are some wonderful handymen and contractors out there who basically get a bad name just because the last guy did a terrible job. But should you pay for this problem? No – always get the proof.
· Request references and check them out. Just receiving a list of names and numbers isn’t good enough· Ask your contractor’s to review a copy of his current liability insurance certificate
· Get a contract in writing, with specifics that you’re agreeing to
· You should never be required to pay more than one-third of the contract price as a down payment
· If a building permit is needed, ask to see the permit before the work begins
· Do not make payments unless work is proceeding by contract guidelines
· You should never rush into any renovation or remodeling job. By doing so you are relinquishing control to the contractor. You probably will not have problems with an honest contractor, as he should help you work within your budget.
· Rushing into your project only benefits the corrupt contractor who would probably try to sell you the rehab job with products that make him the most money... and not necessarily in your best interests
Rehab and repair doesn’t have to become an agonizing experience; the key to making sure your project runs smoothly is to do your homework ahead of time.
Any contractor you hire must have insurance; must have references; and you need to see proof! You see, trust can be a dangerous thing in home rehab and repair jobs while knowledge is strength. Don't get me wrong...there are some wonderful handymen and contractors out there who basically get a bad name just because the last guy did a terrible job. But should you pay for this problem? No – always get the proof.
· Request references and check them out. Just receiving a list of names and numbers isn’t good enough· Ask your contractor’s to review a copy of his current liability insurance certificate
· Get a contract in writing, with specifics that you’re agreeing to
· You should never be required to pay more than one-third of the contract price as a down payment
· If a building permit is needed, ask to see the permit before the work begins
· Do not make payments unless work is proceeding by contract guidelines
· You should never rush into any renovation or remodeling job. By doing so you are relinquishing control to the contractor. You probably will not have problems with an honest contractor, as he should help you work within your budget.
· Rushing into your project only benefits the corrupt contractor who would probably try to sell you the rehab job with products that make him the most money... and not necessarily in your best interests
Rehab and repair doesn’t have to become an agonizing experience; the key to making sure your project runs smoothly is to do your homework ahead of time.
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