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Tips To Find a Home Renovator
The above article is from the Home Builder magazine, VOL.22 NO2
What you should know before you hire a Home Renovator:
Getting a Quote
It's easy to find someone to do that renovation work you want done around your house. Just call the number on one of those hand-drawn ads posted utility poles in your neighborhood. Or you could do some legwork and try to find a reputable contractor. You'll be happier with a job well done.
Word of mouth is often the best way to find the right person for your job. If you know someone who's had work done in their home and they are pleased with the results, ask for a name and a number. Local and national home building associations also recommend contractors who meet insurance and licensing standards. Get two or three quotes for the work you want done. The quotes should be written and spell out exactly the work you want done and how long it should take. The lowest quote may not necessarily be the best. Don't let a contractor pressure you into making a quick decision to either hire him/her or hand over money. Commit only when you are ready.
References
Any good contractor will gladly supply you with a list of references and pictures showing examples or work that they have done. That list should include up-to-date contact information including names, addresses, phone numbers, and details about the jobs done. Check the renomark website for more information on renovating.
Get It In Writing: Your contract should outline exactly what work will be done in the renovation. It should include all drawings that can be done in advance of the project. It should also include a timetable for the project, with start and end dates. A payment schedule is crucial and should be based not on time spent on the job, but on measurable milestones (eg. completion of plumbing work, electrical work, etc.). Beware of contractors that demand a downpayment of more than 10 or 15 per cent.
The contract should indicate whether the homeowner or the contractor will be responsible for securing all the necessary permits, licenses. inspections and certificates for the work. There should also be a clause stating that work will conform to the requirements of all applicable codes such as building, safety, and fire codes.
The contract should spell out your right to hold back a certain percentage of the total cost of the renovation in case a subcontractor places a lien on your home because the contractor has not paid them. You are allowed to hold back up to 10 per cent of the total bill for 30 days in case something goes wrong after the work is complete.
It should also be stated in the contract that you will not pay any costs above the quote unless agreed to in writing. The contract should be easy-to-read. Typed out is best. There should be no fine print.
Permits
Generally, a building permit is required for renovations that involve changes to the structure or systems of your home - but regulations will vary from municipality to municipality. It is the homeowner's responsibility to obtain all proper permits for the work occurring on your premises - but the contractor can do it for you if that's part of your contract.
License
Any contractor who comes onto your property should have a valid renovator's license. It is your right to ask to see it.
Information courtesy of CHBA-CO
