Building Dos and Don'ts

 

Don’t neglect your home. Do maintain and enhance the value of your home with maintenance and remodeling projects. Don’t try complex remodels on your own. Do call a professional remodeler to get the job done right the first time and save yourself time and money. Don’t necessarily hire the least expensive remodeler. Do a thorough check on the remodeler’s experience, references, and qualifications, such as membership with the Madison Area Builders Association. Be certain that you compare bids to ensure that you are comparing “apples to apples.” Don’t lose patience during the remodel. Do prepare yourself for challenges and realistically understand the time and funds that your remodel requires. Don’t try to remove or deal with lead paint on your own. Do call a professional remodeler or remediator to minimize exposure to lead paint. Questions to Ask When Interviewing Remodelers Here are some questions to use as a baseline when looking into remodelers. How long has your company been in business? Do you have General Liability Insurance? Do you carry worker’s compensation insurance? Will you provide me with a written lien waiver? Are you a member of the Madison Area Builders Association? Will you obtain all the required building permits? Is there a warranty for your work? Who will be in charge of the job? Who is my regular contact? Will you provide me with written references or contact information of previous customers? What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business? How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year or two? How will you protect my home? What about protecting my children and pets? How is cleanup handled?