As a professional mason for over 15 years in both residential and commercial construction I have decided to do my best to try and educate the homeowner with regard to renovation and or renovation services and what they need to be aware of.
Its imperative that when needing a home repair, regardless of what the repair may be that you get MORE THAN ONE ESTIMATE! There is no "standard" in the industry. There is no state requirement in terms of estimating. That being said, you should have a checklist. 1) Make sure they are licensed! period. No exceptions! If its a major project or home renovation where there is numerous sub-contractors, make sure the general contractor holds a builders license. Not a maintenance and alteration license. Sub contractors can side step this requirement only if there is a general contractor. Period. My personal opinion is that even sub-contractors should hold a maintenance and alteration license.
Lets move on. If your receiving estimates for a chimney repair, make sure your speaking to a mason. An experienced mason. Not a "maintenance person". Or someone who thinks he can do a good job. Becoming a competant mason or tradesperson in general takes years. I dont mean a couple. It takes a substantial amount of time within any given trade to become competant. If a salesperson comes to your home selling these services , they also need to be licensed, and they need to produce this license along with proof of insurance. Its the law! It makes them responsible for the repairs they will be making to your home! Enough for now.
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