Guide To Hiring A Contractor

Finding a qualified restoration company doesn't have to be a difficult task.  By following these guidelines you will make the selection process easier and be better prepared to make an informed decision that best suites your needs.

Select a Professional, Reliable, Restoration or Remodel Company

• Employ a contractor with an established business in your area.  Local firms can be checked through references from past customers in your community.  Local companies are compelled to perform satisfactory work for their business to survive.
• Check with the government Consumer Affair Office and the Better Business Bureau to ensure there is no adverse file on record for the contractor.
• Ask to see a copy of the contractor's certification of insurance for the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage.  Most states require a contractor to carry worker's compensation, property damage and personal liability insurance.
• Make sure the contractor's insurance coverage meets all the minimum requirements.  If you solicit bids from several different contractors, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that is substantially lower than the others.

Proper Planning is Important

• Think your project through from star to finish.
• Careful planning of your restoration project will enable you to update your home to pre-loss condition, increase the value of your investment and turn a negative situation into an opportunity for a clean, fresh environment.

Think About Design and Function

• In the past, restoration companies have only restored to pre-loss condition, but now is a great time to imagine how it could be.

Comply With Local Codes and Permits

• Building codes have been established by most cities, towns and countries.  They vary considerably from one jurisdiction to another.
• A building permit generally is required whenever structural work is involved or when the basic living area of the home is to be changed.
• A professional who works in your city or town every day will know the local requirements.

A Well Written Contract is Essential

• Be sure the contract includes the contractor's name, address, phone and license number (if applicable).
• Detail what the contractor will and will not do.
• The contract should include the approximate start date and substantial completion dates.
• Study all required plans carefully.  Insist that you approve them and they are identified in your written contract before any work begins.
• Federal law requires a contractor to give you written notice of your right to, without penalty, cancel a contract within three business days of signing it, provided it was solicited at some place other than the contractor's place of business or appropriate trade premises your home, for instance, or has financing provision.
• Make sure financial terms are understood and spelled out in the contract.  The total price, payment schedule, and any cancellation penalty should be clear.
• Thoroughly review the entire contract and be certain you understand it before signing it.

Working With Professionals

• Before work begins, ask your contractor what inconveniences may occur while the project is underway and plan for them accordingly.  Be sure your contractor is aware of vacations or special events so that he or she may schedule appropriately.
• Move personal property from construction areas and declare all work zones off-limits to children.
• Be sure to put all changes in writing if your project is modified while work is being done.  Both parties should sign the amendment.
• Keep a job file including contract, plans, specifications, invoices, change orders and all correspondence with the contractor.
• Request a contractor's Affidavit of Final Release be provided to you at the time you make final payment and a final waiver of mechanic's lien.  This is your assurance that you will not be liable for any third-party claims for nonpayment of materials or subcontractors.

Choose a Course of Action

• Depending on your needs and the size complexity of your intended restoration project, there are many factors to finding the right contractor for your job.
• What expectations do you have in selecting a restoration company?