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What are some guidelines to
follow when trying to find a contractor?
ANSWER: While hiring
contractors recommended by friends is usually a safe
route, never hire a construction professional without
first checking him or her out. If your state has a
licensing board for contractors, call to find out if
there are any outstanding complaints against that
license holder. Also, call your local Better Business
Bureau to see if there are any complaints on file.
If you are satisfied with the answers you find there,
interview the contractor candidates. Ask what kind of
worker's compensation insurance they carry and get
policy and insurance company phone numbers so you can
verify the information. If they are not covered, you
could be liable for any work-related injury incurred
during the project. Also be sure that the contractor has
an umbrella general liability policy. If they pass the
insurance hurdle, next check some of their references. A
good contractor will be happy to provide as many as you
want. Finally, don't let yourself be rushed into making
a decision no matter how competitive the market may
seem. Also, never pay a deposit to a contractor at the
first meeting. You may end up losing your money.
Where do I get information on remodeling?
ANSWER:Try these sources:
* National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 780
Lee St., Ste 200, Dex Plaines, IL 60016; (800) 611-6274;
nari.org.
* "Rehab a Home With HUDs 203(K)," published by the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451
7th St., Washington, DC 20410; call (202) 708-1112;
hud.gov.
* "Cost vs. Value Report," by Remodeling magazine, 1
Thomas Circle, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005;
remodeling.hw.net. $8.95 per copy; call (202) 736-3447
for credit card orders.
* "The Do-able Renewable Home," a booklet published by
the American Association of Retired Persons, available
online at homemods.org.
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