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| Selecting a home improvement and repair contractor |
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Home improvements and repairs can cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent complaints. When selecting a contractor: * Get recommendations and references. * Talk to friends, family and others who have used the contractor for similar work. * Get written estimates from at least three contractors. * Insist that they come to your home to evaluate what needs to be done. * Be sure the estimates are based on the same work. * Check contractor complaint records. * Your state or local consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau can provide this information. * Make sure the contractor meets licensing and registration requirements. * Your state or local consumer protection agency can also help you with this. * Contact your local building inspection department to check for permit and inspection requirements. * Be wary if the contractor asks you to get the permit; it could mean the firm is not licensed. * Be sure the contractor is insured. * They should have personal liability property damage and worker's compensation insurance for workers and subcontractors. * Also check with your insurance company to find out if you are covered for any injury or damage that might occur. * Insist on a written contract that states exactly what work will be done, the quality of materials that will be used, warranties, timetables, the names of any subcontractors, the total price of the job, and the schedule of payments. * Try to limit your down payment. * Understand your payment options. * Compare the cost of getting your own loan versus contractor financing. * Do not make a final payment or sign a final release until you are satisfied with the work and know that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid. * Some state laws allow unpaid subcontractors and suppliers to put a lien on your home for bills the contractor failed to pay. * Pay by credit card when you can. * You may have the right to withhold payment to the credit card company until problems are corrected. For this information and more, please visit the Federal Citizen Information Center's web site on Consumer Action. |