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by Wayne Schulte
Below are tips on choosing and hiring a reputable contractor. Always be
sure to ask for a contractors license. Any contractor coming to your home should
have a credit card size license to show you.
You should also ask to see a drivers license. Is it the same person as in the
picture or on the contractors license? Remember that some unlicensed contractors
will try to steal another contractors identity. Also remember that no can borrow
or use another persons license.
Other things that a good contractor will have are general liability insurance
and workers compensation insurance. These types of insurance are very important
to you the homeowner because they will help protect you in the event that your
workers get hurt or that the performance of your contractor is faulty in some
way and he refuses to help you fix the problem.
Your homeowners insurance may help you some what but don’t count on it,
there may be a construction exemption in your policy.
References are an important part before considering any construction company
(plumber, electrician, general contractor). Ask for recent jobs finished, do not
except one job that was done five years ago correctly but ask for five to ten
current references.
Get quotes from local service providers
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One other important point is that any contractor can only ask for a $1000.00
or 10% of the contract as a deposit, which ever amount is less. You also have a
72 hour right of recession period in which the contractor must return your
deposit. The only exception is if you go to the contractors place of business to
sign the contract or if the work begins immediately as per your contract. Along
with the 72 hour right to rescission you must send the contractor written notice
postmarked to show your proof of compliance ( in your best interest send the
letter by certified mail) and call your contractor so that he knows that you
want to stop the contract otherwise he may use your deposit to pay for your
windows or cabinets.
Your contractor should also be involved with other organizations in your area
to show that they are not a fly by night company. Your contractor should
also be able to provide material supplier references such as a lumber company,
door company or hardware store to show their credit worthiness.
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