By Paul Bianchina
Q: I am thinking of using a major chain department store for a total overhaul of my house, windows, siding and a kitchen remodel. The salesman is telling me about "voided warranties" and about all the problems being caused by dishonest contractors. I'm a young homeowner, and they now have me pretty worried. I love reading your columns for all the helpful advice you give, and was wondering what your opinion is on all this. --Travis C.
A: I can certainly understand your concerns, both from being a new homeowner and also having to face a relatively large expenditure.
In my opinion, a department store is where you buy shoes and a general contractor is where you buy remodeling services, and the fact that they are trying to frighten and confuse you even further with all their talk about "voided warranties" and dishonest contractors tells me that they are trying very hard to pressure you into a sale.
Stop right here, and take a deep breath. The first thing you need to determine is exactly what you want to have done, what the priorities are for doing it, and what your budget is for each phase. The three things you listed are all things that department stores typically push, and I wonder if you really need all this work or if someone talked you into it. Either way, first of all you need to know what you want and what you can afford before you go shopping.
Next, do your homework. The vast majority of contractors are honest and hardworking, and they depend on your referrals to remain in business. I always recommend to people that they ask friends, relatives, and coworkers for recommendations. You'll find that almost everyone knows a contractor, and will gladly share stories, good and bad, with you.
You can also ask for recommendations from lumber suppliers or other building material retailers. Ask the local building department if they can provide you with the name of your local builders association, then call the association and ask for a list of members and any referrals they might have. Your real estate agent and your insurance agent will often know reputable contractors as well.
If your state has a governing agency that oversees contractors, call the agency or go on their website and check the credentials of all the contractors on the list you've compiled. You will quickly be able to determine if the contractor is currently licensed, bonded and insured, and the history of any complaints filed against them.
Narrow the list down, and ask two of them to make a site visit to examine your home and discuss the work with you. You'll quickly be able to determine if you feel comfortable with one or more of them, and if you would like to pursue the project further with them. If you do, request recent client references from them and then call the references. Talk to them on the phone, and if possible, make arrangements to visit their house and see the contractor's workmanship in person.
All of these steps, along with written contracts and changes orders and a clear financial understanding, is the best way to get a construction project done right. And please understand that my comments regarding department store contracting services are my own opinion, and it is not my intention to dissuade you from using them. Just take your time and explore other options before you sign on the dotted line.
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