Misconceptions

If the Better Business Bureau doesn’t have any complaints against the contractor, he must be qualified. NO,NO,NO! The BBB often does a lousy job of reporting offending companies. Especially if they’re dues paying “members.”

 The October 1995 issue of Money Magazine exposed the BBB for what it really is. Many consumers believe the BBB is a non-profit organization or even a government agency. In fact, the BBB is really a franchised for-profit business that often fails to give unsatisfactory ratings to member companies plagued by a history of serious complaints.

 The BBB is in the business of selling “memberships” not “ratting on” dues paying members. Just because a contractor doesn’t have any complaints with them doesn’t mean you’re working with someone who is a reputable professional.

 Going with the lowest price saves you money. NO, not necessarily! Everyone tends to look for the lowest price. On a low estimate, you must ask yourself what is being left out or what short-cut is being taken. One of the most common signs of trouble ahead is someone offering to do work for much less money than others. Like anything else, you can’t get something for nothing. Be careful of choosing your remodeler based upon the lowest price.

 Doing it yourself saves money. NO! Sometimes the “weekend warrior” can undertake small projects like painting, hanging wallpaper, routine repairs, etc. But beware of undertaking larger more complicated projects. What starts out as an attempt to save money can turn into a costly folly. All to often the job so botched and it costs more to have a professional come in and fix what’s been done. According to an article in the Baltimore Sun, less the 20% of these do-it-yourself jobs work out. This is mostly due to lack of experience on the part of the homeowner. If you want to be assured your project will turn out the way you want it, call a qualified professional.

 If a person claims to have many years of experience, they must do quality work. NO! I can’t tell you how many people receive bad workmanship from contractors who’ve claimed to be in business or the trade for twenty years. Take experience claims with a grain of salt. Don’t believe just because a person has twenty years experience, he will do a good job. He could have done a poor job for twenty years. Investigate further to ensure you’re dealing with a qualified professional.

 Selecting the Right Contractor

          The Most Important Questions to ask to reduce you legal liability when hiring any contractor. . .

 Are you licensed? Being licensed is the law. If a contractor cannot produce a valid license, DON’T HIRE HIM! Keypoint: Actually see a current copy of the license rather than accept a verbal statement.

 Do you carry general liability insurance? Make sure your contractor carries general liability insurance. This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contractor and/or his employees. The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing damage. Keypoint: Many policies leave you exposed due to low policy limits. A general aggregate limit of one million should be adequate, limits that are less than that may leave you exposed in the event of a serious disabling injury or a death.

 Do you carry workers’ compensation insurance? Make sure your contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance. It protects you from liability if a worker is injured while working on your property. Be aware if the contractor does not carry workers’ compensation coverage, you may be liable for any injuries suffered by the contractor or any of his employees on your property. Keypoint: Many states do not require workers’ comp. Coverage on sole proprietors or partnerships even though they are licensed and bonded. This leaves you exposed to liability on the vent of contractor injury at your home.

 Are you a member of NARI or NAHB? NARI stands for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and NAHB stands for the National Association of Home Builders. It’s always a good idea to consider hiring a NARI or NAHB contractor. In most cases, both organizations only attract conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and in weeding out unprofessional contractors. Keypoint: In order to become a member, the contractor’s background and references are thoroughly investigated.

the Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make

And How To Avoid Them

 Listening to the wrong people. Many people take advice on their construction and remodeling project from people who are totally unqualified to give this critical advice. Everyone’s got an opinion on what you should do with your remodeling dollars. “Do it yourself” or “Hire” the sub-contractors and run the project yourself. Just because someone is a relative or a friend, or thinks they know construction does not mean they know the answers to your remodeling questions or problems.

 Call at least two of the most recent clients from the complete list you’re given. Most people start out on the right track by asking for references but they never call them. You can never learn too much about the company that you are considering. Take a few minutes and talk to these people. Ask if the job was done on time and at the agreed upon price. Ask if the contractor was easy to reach and easy to deal with.

 Visit the references and see example work. You can learn a lot by seeing the finished product. If the contractor is good, many previous clients are extremely proud of their “new” home and will be glad to let you look.

Before You Sign the Contract

Good communication. If you can talk with each other, you can work out any details that come up.

 Comfort. If you feel comfortable with your contractor, the chances are good your project will run smoothly. Think about it. You’ve just invited a stranger into your home. Do you find this person nice? Considerate? Personable? A listener? Was he polite and courteous? Or did he make you feel he was not interested?

 Carefully Plan Your Project

This is really the greatest “secret” of all. Lot’s of people spend more time planning a vacation than they do a major remodel of their home. If you’re considering a remodel in the near future, sitting down and talking with a professional remodeling expert who can answer all of your questions is the best advice I know. Use the 5 P’s—Proper Planning Prevents Poor Projects. . .

Hire Local Whenever Possible

 Choose a local contractor. It is always best to have your contractor live and work in your community, should a problem arise a local contractor is quicker to respond to your needs. Many established professionals are actively involved in community organizations that improve the quality of life in their (and your) community. They are aware that poor work will hurt their business and their standing in the community.

Still have questions about your remodel project?

Please contact us and we will be happy to answer your questions.