A home
improvement project can be very stressful, but you can
make it less stressful by choosing your contractor carefully.
The key to success is to check out everything before you
part with your money.
BEFORE YOU SET THE APPOINTMENT
Before you invite someone to come into your home, ask
the questions that will help you select the contractors
to interview face-to-face.
1. Are
you bonded, licensed and insured?
Usually bonding and insurance companies require contractors
to have licenses, which are very important to good contractors.
In the event that you suffer some kind of loss due to
the contractor’s performance (or non-performance),
you will not have the same recourse with an unlicensed
contractor.
What kind of insurance should
contractor’s carry?
• property damage
• workers compensation
• personal
liability |
2.
Are you a remodeling specialist?
Anyone who watches “This Old House” knows
that unforeseen situations arise, and a remodeling specialist
is accustomed to dealing with those circumstances.
3. Do
you have experience with_________? How many years?
Make certain they have relevant experience to the project
you are considering.
4. Where
is your office and/or showroom?
It’s important that the contractor has the stability
of a place of business. It’s also important if
you need to track them down.
BEFORE YOU MEET, DO FURTHER INVESTIGATION.
In Arizona, you can check online at the Registrar of
Contractors’ website (http://www.rc.state.az.us/)
to see if the firm is licensed and whether there are
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a number of registered complaints or unresolved complaints
against the organization. Also, call the Better Business
Bureau and check the contractor’s track record
with them. Be aware that a new contractor or one that
changed its legal name to dodge complaints may not have
any record of complaints with the BBB or Registrar of
Contractors.
QUESTIONS TO ASK AT THE APPOINTMENT
Be certain that you give the job details the same way
with each company so that you won’t be comparing
“apples to oranges.” Ask questions about
anything that you don’t understand.
1. How
are you organized and who is going to do the work?
It is very important to understand the company’s
staff structure and process. Does the company assign
project manager, supervisor and customer service responsibilities?
Make certain they furnish you with names and responsibilities
so that you know who to call before, during and after
the project is completed. Beware of the company if numerous
responsibilities lie with one individual.
2. What
is the anticipated timeline of events to complete my
project?
A reputable contractor will provide you with a comprehensive
timeline. When there isn’t enough emphasis on
operations and project management, or the contractor
is dependent on subcontractors, often the effect is
delays and more delays. Demand a timeline—even
if changes happen, you will have a benchmark for the
process and progress. If subcontractors are used, find
out who handles service calls if something isn’t
done on time or correctly.
| Mechanics
Liens
It’s wise to educate yourself on how mechanics
liens work. Basically, they involve the failure
of your contractor to pay for the labor and materials
used for your project. Laws vary state to state,
so make certain you understand your state’s
laws for mechanics liens.
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