December 1, 2008
Renovation job do's and don'ts
Tips for homeowners as they seek help on renovation jobs:
-Get at least three different estimates. By law, homeowners are entitled to a written estimate from the contractor. Make sure the estimate includes the cost of materials and labor, as well as the time of completion. "Think twice about hiring a contractor who is late with an estimate
or who is hard to get on the phone," said Kathy Braddock, a real estate consultant with Braddock & Purcell.
-Do a background check. By law, contractors have to be licensed. Call the city's De-partment of Consumer Affairs to make sure no major complaints have been filed against them. "Make it a point to get four or five referrals and see their work," said Braddock.
-Spell out the details. As with the estimate, make sure the contract includes a list of materials to be used and goes into detail. Include brand names and model numbers.
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-Also write down a detailed description of the work to be done and when it will be done. Have a statement in the contract saying the contractor is responsible for repairing mistakes and cleaning the area after the job is finished. Finally, consider including a penalty charge if work is not finished on time.
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