Part 4 of 4
Hiring an Home Improvement Contractor?
Some important tips to remember:
· Obtaining building permits are ultimately the homeowner’s responsibility, double check that your builder has actually pulled a proper permit for your job.
· Do not make any advance payments, outside the payment schedule detailed in your contract, without first notifying all of your contractor's sub-contractors (those that furnished materials or rendered services ) in writing at least five days before you make the payment. Without getting into giving legal advice, this “tip” is dictated by statute and is important in the event you need to defend your property's title against a mechanic's lien. Make sure you keep copies of the notices you sent.
· Keep copies of all checks or banks checks paid to your contractor.
· Make sure you understand your contract and if you do not, check with your attorney.
· Plan your payment schedule to correspond to the progress of the work and make sure to include the payment schedule in the contract.
· If the contractor demands all the money up front, or a large advance payment, this may sign the contractor is in financial trouble.
· Keep a daily record of all correspondence/conversations with your contractor, all work done, all materials delivered, any changes/additions and any problems encountered.
· Do not sign a certificate of completion or make your final payment until you are sure that everything in the contract is done and the entire job has been finished to your satisfaction, and if required by your local building official, their approval as well.
· Personally speak to all suppliers and subcontractors to verify (in writing) that they have been paid work.
· Warranties are usually good only if in writing, and the writing is only as good as the contractor behind it. Be sure to check for written warranties on materials (e.g., new windows), and be sure you keep them in a safe place.
· Your contractor should carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance. You should check with your own policy to see if you have enough coverage in case someone is injured while working on your property.
In the event that you find yourself faced with having to file a claim against your contractor; as long as the contractor was registered with the DCP within the last two years of the date of execution of your contract, you are eligible to file a claim with the Home Guaranty Fund (FUND) for reimbursement for up to $15,000, if you have obtained a judgment in civil court against the builder (and filed your claim within 2 years of obtaining that judgment), the work was for more than $200.00 and the work was performed on a residential property (single or multi-family dwellings of 6 units or less or condos). The contractor may be subject to arrest in addition to paying back any money you may have collected from the FUND.
The details for collecting from the FUND can be found at this web address: http://www.ct.gov/dcp/cwp/view.asp?a=1629&q=274416&dcpNav=|
Remember, buyer beware. The above information is provided to assist you before commencing work on your home and through the process. For more information, visit the DCP's website and always consult your attorney in the event you need further information or assistance.
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