Home Improvement Contracts

Contracts
All agreements and oral promises regarding a home improvement projects should be put in writing to protect both the customer and the contractor. If you intend to do some of the work yourself or hire another contractor to do it, such terms should be written into the contract as well. The written contract should also include:
 A thorough description of the work to be done-specifying all materials to be used in terms of quality, quantity, weight, colour, size, brand name, etc.;
 Agreed upon starting and completion dates;
 Total cost, with a breakdown of labour and material charges;
 A payment schedule;
 Any warranties and guarantees of workmanship;
 The method for debris and material removal once the job is finished; and
 A clause which states your right to cancel the contract within three business days after signing and before work begins. If you cancel, it is recommended that a notice of cancellation be sent to the contractor by certified mail, with a return receipt request
 A clause should state that the contract is null and void or will be renegotiated if the job uncovers unexpected or hidden problems or damage after work has begun.
In addition, make sure the written contract includes:
 The contractor’s full name
 Address
 Telephone number
 Professional license number
Never sign a partial or blank contract. Read every contract clause carefully and ask any questions you may have before signing. Retain a copy of the contract once it is signed, and file it in your records.
You should make every attempt to pay a minimal or no down payment for supplies or services; especially if you have not done business with a contractor in the past. You should not make any payments for incomplete work. Schedule payments at weekly or monthly intervals or after completion of each phase of the project. All of these terms should be spelled out in the contract and clearly understood by both you and the contractor.
Lien Protection: For a large remodelling job that involves several subcontractors and a substantial financial commitment, you should protect yourself from liens against your home if the primary contractor does not pay his or her subcontractors or suppliers.
Warranty Clause: Any warranty offered on products by the contractor should be in writing and scrutinized carefully. Make certain you understand all the terms and conditions, including the length of the warranty. The warranty must state whether it is a FULL warranty that gives the consumer certain automatic rights or a LIMITED warranty that restricts certain consumer rights.

Some More Home Improvement Tips.

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Home Improvement Planning
Home Improvement Contracts
Funding Home Improvements
Home Improvement Contractors