"Summer time and the living is easy."
As the old song says can be true if you have the right people doing those special home improvement projects. We at the Better Business Bureau have put together some guidelines to make these projects go as smoothly as possible. So before hire a contractor or service provider take the time to review this top 10 list.
Also new is our Senior Scene web link so go online and check it out, (http:minnesota.bbb.org/senior-outreach).
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Gary Johnson
Top 10 things to do when hiring a contractor
1. Check out their track record
Shop around and get at least three written estimates.
Contact the Better Business Bureau to obtain Business Reviews on any company you are considering hiring. It's fast, easy and free.
Visit the BBB's website 24 hours a day at bbb.org or call 1-800-646-6222.
2. Solicit multiple quotes
Shop around and get at least three written estimates.
3. Verify license insurance & bonding
Ensure that companies have a current license to do work in Minnesota, (dli.mn.gov), as well as liability and workers compensation insurance. Also, make sure that all workers are bonded.
4. Ask for references
Get references from friends and relatives, and also ask the companies for references from their last three jobs and check them out before you sign a contract.
Use extra caution with sales people who are going door-to-door in your neighborhood or are claiming to be doing work with your neighbors; ensure they are an employee of the business they claim to be representing.
5. Inquire about a lien waiver
Ask whether the contractor will provide a lien waiver upon completion of work.
A lien waiver is a statement by the contractor that all suppliers and subcontractors have been paid for their work.
6. Don't forget building permits
Permits are for your protection and help ensure work will meet local building codes.
Companies are required to get permits and should be responsible for obtaining any necessary permits not you.
7. Consider all angles
Keep in mind that if you choose to do business with someone who is not local, you need to know who to contact in regard to any service needs that may arise after the completion of the project.
8. Get it in writing
Do not allow work to start without a signed, written contract that includes start and completion dates, exact costs, specific work to be done, and warranty information.
Be aware that anything you sign is a contract.
Pay special attention to any details in bold, that are underlined, or that you need to initial.
9. Don't rely on verbal promises
Any promises made orally should be written into the contract, including warranties on materials or labor.
10. Arrange a payment schedule
Never pay in full in advance of a project.
Stagger your payments according to agreed-upon stages of work completion and do not make a final payment until all work is finished. Never pay in cash; use check or credit card.
Gary Johnson is the Senior Outreach Program Manager for the Better Business Bureau of North Dakota and Minnesota.