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6/27/2008

Fort Worth, TX – – This time of year many consumers are thinking about making home improvements. Before selecting a remodeling contractor, carefully plan the project for which you are contracting. Discuss the project in detail with any potential contractor. In hiring a contractor, solicit at least two or three bids; be sure that the bids are based on the same building specifications, materials, labor, and time frame. Ask for local references and inspect completed projects if possible. Don’t let the contractor rush you into signing a contract and be wary of contractors that “just happen to be in the neighborhood.”

In signing the contract, be sure that all promises and agreements are in writing. The contract should also include a complete description of the work to be done, starting and completion dates, a breakdown of the total cost, the payment schedule, any warranties or guarantees, and clean-up after the job. Any warranty offered by the contractor should be in writing and detail all conditions and terms. Never sign a partial or blank contract; read every contract thoroughly before signing. While you should expect to make a down payment, do not make the final payment until the project is satisfactorily completed.

Contractors who build new homes or who are involved in a remodeling job that costs at least $10,000 or changes the square footage of the home are required to register with the Texas Residential Construction Commission, a state agency. Registration includes a criminal background check and requires those who register to provide a set of minimum warranties for their work. For the different services offered by the TRCC, you can consult their website at www.trcc.state.tx.us. Check with the BBB for a reliability report on any potential contractor.