PPT on Hiring Home Improvement Contractors (1)

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HIRINGHOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR
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Reputable Contractors

• offer exceptionally long guarantees.
• ask you to pay for the entire job up-front.
• suggest that you borrow money from a lender the
  contractor knows.

• solicit door-to-door.
• just happen to have materials left over from a
  previous job.
• only accept cash payments.
• ask you to get the required building permits.
• do not list a business number in the local
  telephone directory.

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Questions to Ask a Contractor

• How long have you been in business?

• Look for a well-established company and check it
  out with consumer protection officials.
• No record of complaints against a particular
  contractor doesnt necessarily mean no previous
  consumer problems.

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Questions to Ask a Contractor

• licensed and registered

• Not all states have some type of licensing and
  registration statutes affecting contractors,
  remodelers, and/or specialty contractors
• The licensing can range from simple registration
  to a detailed qualification process.

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Questions to Ask a Contractor

• Projects you have completed in the last year

• Ask for a list. This will help you determine how
  familiar the contractor is with your type of
  project.

• Project require a permit?

• Most states and localities require permits for
  building projects. A competent contractor will
  get all the necessary permits before starting
  work on your project.

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Questions to Ask a Contractor

• Using subcontractors on this project?

• If yes, ask to meet them, and make sure they
  have current insurance coverage and licenses, if
  required

• Insurance do you carry?

• Contractors should have personal liability,
  workers compensation, and property damage
  coverage. Ask for copies of insurance certificates

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Questions to ask former customers

• Can I visit your home to see the completed job?
• Were you satisfied with the project?
• Did the contractor keep you informed about the
  status of the project.

• Did workers show up on time?
• Would you recommend the contractor?
• Would you use the contractor again?

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Do not sign a contract if it does not include ..

• The contractors name, address, phone number,
  and license number and all.
• The payment schedule for the contractor,
  subcontractors and suppliers.
• An estimated starting date and ending date.
• Warranties covering materials and workmanship.

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Do not sign a contract if it does not include ..

• The contract or receipt must be dated, show the
  name and address of the seller, and explain your
  right to cancel.
• Oral promises also should be added to the
  written contract.
• Keep all paperwork related to your project in
  one place. This includes copies of the contract,
  change orders and correspondence with your home
  improvement professionals.

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THANK YOU
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