SELECTING A CONTRACTOR

Where to start?

Most people start by asking friends, neighbors and business associates. Always be sure to do business with a company that is properly licensed and insured. Before any work starts ask for a certificate of insurance that shows their liability and work comp coverage.

Before work starts make sure you have the permits needed for your job. This will generally be a building permit and a fire permit. Homeowners are responsible for the penalties resulting from any failure to file required permits. An addition or structural improvement could be illegal without the right permits. If such work was done without proper permits your building inspector could have the addition removed or rebuilt with the proper permits. This could cause you legal and financial burden.

Meet with usually 2-3 contractors you feel are right for your job. Have a set of plans and specifications for your job, so everybody is bidding on the exact same thing. Without plans and specs, you're not getting apples for apples. Don't always let price determine your contractor. The biggest thing I would tell you in picking a contractor is to make sure you get along and trust each other.

Last but not least if you have questions, ask. Don't assume anything in construction. Get it in writing.

Good Luck.

A few things to expect on your job would be:
• Noise
• Dust
• Daily Interruptions
• It will not be a reality show time frame. It will take longer than 3 days.
• Be realistic

I almost forgot to tell you about the inevitable: Changes, Changes, Changes
This will happen and if you have a good contractor, they will be able to make this a seamless process and always have a Change Order signed by both the Contractor and Yourself.