|
If you the homeowner are planning on hiring a tradesman or contractor or handyman for your home remodeling job, it's a good idea to get bids or estimates from at least four qualified professionals. When there is strong demand for home improvement services in your area, this will be difficult to do, but do not skip this step. Check references, ask to see similar completed jobs, request to see copies of general liability and workers compensation insurance certificates. Always ask for a written contract before you pay any money or begin work. Always keep a record of all materials used in the job, for warranty of the products used in the remodeling job
Contact a local lawyer for a list of specific contract issues or www.nolo.com for general information and resources. This step will save you a lot of potential headaches. Also call the local city business inspector to see if the contractor is on any listings of doing bad work.
THE CONTRACTOR CONTRACT: What to Get in Writing The contract should include these elements:
Contractor's name, address, phone number and license number
Complete description of the work
List of materials
Complete costs and schedule of payments
Description of heavy equipment use and access
Start date and completion date
Process for changes during the project
Written warranties for all work and materials
Arbitration clause for dispute resolutions
Update insurance binder for the contractor.
Have your lawyer do a hold harmless agreement with the contractor
hold harmless agreement
What is a hold harmless agreement
A contract provision that transfers liability from one party to another; an agreement that one party will assume the other's liability arising under or because of the contract. Such agreements are frequently found in leases, sidetrack agreements and easements. There are three major types: clarification type--the parties provide that each will assume its own legal responsibility or will make only a small or reasonable transfer of responsibility from one party to the other; moderate type--one party assumes all legal liability except for the negligence of the other (this is considered the standard agreement); severe type--one party assumes all legal liability without regard to fault or negligence.
Be a named insured for your project, on the contractor insurance.
Lien release clauses to protect you if your contractor does not pay workers or suppliers.
Consider if it's worth it to remodel. You also want to make sure you think about how long you are planning to stay in the house.
Roberts Roofing and Siding
Jerry Roberts
6279 Ridge Road
Lockport, NY 14094
Phone: (716) 433-2883 1-800-834-2883
Fax: (716) 439-8783 Email: info@robertsroofingandsiding.com
Link to the TV show with Jerry Roberts
Link to information on Roberts Roofing and Siding
|
