Springtime Tips on Hiring Home Improvement Contractors

This is the season when people start to think about making home improvements, but dealing with contractors and home remodeling companies doesn't have to be a nightmare. By following some common sense procedures, you can arrange for the work you want to have done and garner additional enjoyment from your home. A well planned home improvement project will add value and comfort to your home.

Reputable contractors will work closely with homeowners, explaining the scope of the work and all the associated costs. But far too often, the image of our industry has been tarnished by the disreputable practices of a few quick-buck scammers.

Be advised that unscrupulous workmen will often pad their bills with hidden costs for things ranging from travel time to the purchase of new tools. It's your right to know what you are expected to pay for in connection with any work on your home and not feel pressured. Remember, if your home is your castle, it's your job to protect it!

To help homeowners avoid those problems, consider these "Top 10" list of do's and don'ts for homeowners to consider before engaging any workmen this spring.

USE EXPERIENCED CONTRACTORS - Make sure the contractor you hire is experienced in the type of work you want to have done at your home. Not every contractor is experienced in every type of remodeling.

ASK QUESTIONS - Investigate unknown contractors with the local consumer affairs office or Better Business Bureau for customer complaints. Specifically ask for the resolution, if any, of those complaints. A good contractor who makes an honest mistake will always try and correct it.

IS THE BUSINESS PROPERLY INSURED? - Make sure your contractor has adequate Workman's Compensation and Liability Insurance. Remember, if the contractor does not carry appropriate insurance coverage, a homeowner may be liable for accidents on the job.

DON'T GET AN ESTIMATE, GET A PRICE - Ask for specific prices for specific types of work. Ask contractors to explain each element of the price, in detail.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES - Ask if the contractor is a member in good standing of a professional associations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. PLAN, PLAN, PLAN - Plan your work carefully and make sure you clearly describe to your contractor the final goal you hope to achieve.

GET IT IN WRITING - Make sure the contractor clearly describes in a written agreement all the work he is expected to perform, including any responsibility for post-work clean-up and rubbish removal. If the contract is specific, there will be fewer problems later.

YOUR RIGHTS - Federal law requires a contractor to provide written notice of your right to cancel a work contract within three business days. If your contractor doesn't - be wary of his professionalism!

PAYING FOR THE JOB - Financing packages may be provided by a contractor. However, a homeowner has the right to investigate any other type of financing plan that may suit their individual household budget better.

HOME INSURANCE - Review your homeowners insurance and determine if adjustments in your coverage will be needed for the improvements being performed.

(Garden State Brickface Windows & Siding is the most experienced and service-oriented residential and commercial remodeling company in the tri-state area. The company specializes in providing high quality brickface, stoneface, stucco, vinyl siding and replacement windows and patio doors for both residential and commercial building exteriors. Since 1953 the company has completed more than 40,000 projects in the metropolitan area.)