How to Avoid Problems
With a Contractor
Take
It And Run: Ilyce's Corner
By Ilyce Glink for
Right at Home Daily
While most contractors are good people, they
aren't always good at planning out and executing a renovation job efficiently.
Common contractor troubles include poor workmanship, unfulfilled promises and
deliveries, missed deadlines, and spending beyond the budget.
Contractors say that it's difficult to please
many homeowners because they're never satisfied with the finished product. Homeowners
say contractors promise to come back and finish punch list items but rarely
do.
To protect yourself, you need a written contract
with your contractor. You can find a sample contract from the American Institute
of Architects. Be sure you show the contract to a real estate
attorney before you sign it.
While the AIA form contract is a good starting
point for negotiation, your contract should reflect the details of your own
project, including the starting and completion dates.
And, don't give the contractor the final
check until you're completely satisfied.
Before you hire your contractor, read over our article on 
