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...continued
6. Get a
signed, written contract and be sure you understand it. The Construction
Contractors Board of Oregon claims that the single biggest cause of
homeowner-contractor disputes is the written contract: not having one, having a
poor one, or having one everyone ignores. A good contract should include:
The
company name, address (not a post office box) & phone number, the name of the
builder, contractor and license number, if applicable
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A
detailed project description
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A
materials list
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A
statement that all necessary permits and inspections are the responsibility of
the contractor
-
Starting and completion dates
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Warranties of workmanship, the length of the warranty, and specifically what's
covered and what's not
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Contractor's guarantee that he carries liability insurance and worker's
compensation coverage
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A
statement that clean-up will be done by the contractor
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The
total price and payment schedule
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Be
wary of hourly, time and materials or cost-plus pricing where the final
price is not determined until completion of the project. Although it may
seem higher, a fixed price may give you the best protection and price.
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Be
cautious about upfront payments for more than 15% of the contract price.
-
The
schedule and criteria for each installment should be clearly defined in the
contract.
-
Any
installments should be not be required on a certain date, but correlated to
work completion.
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Do
not pay cash. A reputable builder will ask for a check.
7. Make
any changes to the project in writing with a "work order change" to avoid
misunderstandings and surprises.
8. Keep
pets and children away from the construction site. This will ensure not only
their safety, but also that of the workers. In addition, it helps keep the
project on schedule.
9.
Inspect the work regularly.
10. Pay
directly and promptly according to the contract.
Above
all, you should feel comfortable communicating with your contractor. If you
sense he is being evasive when you are getting a quote, it won't get any better
during the construction period. Find someone you understand and who understands
you, and who is open and forthright.
Working
with a contractor takes a little preparation, but following these steps is well
worth it. Are you looking forward to your new outdoor space?
About The Author:
Debbie Rodgers owns and operates Paradise Porch, and is dedicated to helping
people create outdoor living spaces that nurture and enrich them. Visit her on
the web at www.paradiseporch.com and get a free report on "Eight easy ways to
create privacy in your outdoor space". Mail to debbie@paradiseporch.com
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