So you’ve finally decided to get the kitchen updated, the bathroom renovated or those long-overdue home repairs completed.
Maybe you’re adding a deck or finishing the basement, getting new windows or new floors.
No matter what the project is, chances are you’re looking to hire a contractor, particularly if the project involves electrical or plumbing work, or needs someone with carpentry, drywall or other skills. Congrats on making this investment!
But you may have also heard (or seen on social media) some horror stories about contractors and the work they do — or don’t do.
To help you avoid that nightmare, here are things you need to ask before you sign a contract to get work done in your home.
1. Are you licensed and insured?
Ask for proof of a valid contractor’s license from your state that is current, plus copies of insurance (both liability and workers’ compensation). This protects you in case of accidents or damage. You may also want to inquire with the Board for Contractors in Virginia (or a similar state licensing bureau elsewhere) to find out if there have been any complaints or disputes with the contractor you’re considering.
2. Can you provide references from recent clients?
Request a couple of references from jobs completed in the last 6 to 12 months. Follow up with those homeowners to ask about their experience.
3. What’s the estimated timeline for this project?
Construction delays can be a hassle and cost you money. Understand how long the project will take, when it will start, and how delays will be handled. Find out if you are entitled to compensation for any delays and make sure that is all covered in the contract.
4. What is the payment schedule?
Avoid paying everything upfront! A typical schedule might include a deposit, milestone payments, and a final payment after completion. Find out how payments are accepted (check or credit card) and, if insurance is involved, how those payments will work. (Check with your insurance carrier, too.)
5. Will you handle permits and inspections?
It’s tempting to skip the permits and inspections — it’s another cost of time and money. But reputable contractors should manage the permitting process and coordinate inspections, if required by local regulations. You’ll also want to ensure inspections are done to make sure the work quality is up to par and you’ll want to be able to show permits when you go to sell the property later.
6. Who will be on-site doing the work?
Clarify if the contractor will use subcontractors and if they will be supervised. Ask who your main point of contact will be. In addition, make sure any subcontractors are licensed and insured, and make sure they are also pulling permits and agreeing to inspections.
7. How will changes or unexpected issues be handled?
Termites. Leaky pipes. Accidentally broken floor tiles. What happens when things go sideways with your project? Establish a process for change orders or things like damage that needs to be repaired. Get costs and changes in writing, and make sure the initial estimate you get is thorough and accounts for those possibilities.
8. What is included in the contract and warranty?
Ensure the contract includes a very detailed scope of work, materials, costs, deadlines and more. Ask about warranties on labor and materials in case something breaks in 6 months or a year.
Need money to get that project kicked off? CommonWealth One is here to help with a variety of home equity loans and lines of credit that are flexible and cost-effective. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask us what we can do to help you make a positive investment in your home this fall. We’re here for you, for life, and for all the ways you want to make your life better.
