Most inspectors use a checklist that they
mark and note any repairs as they inspect the
home. The Inspection Report usually provides
maintenance tips on how to keep the home and
property in good shape.
Make Sure the Building Contractor has NARI
Membership (if you are building or remodeling
your home):
·
the National Association
of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) represents
building and remodeling contractors, product
manufacturers, and other industry specialists
·
the association
is committed to enhancing the professionalism
of the home building/remodeling industry
contact the NARI chapter within your
area for information about a potential
contractor: view
NARI chapter directory
Investigate
Their Established Business:
·
check the contractor's
place of business, phone number, and other
industry associations — make sure they
are valid establishments
·
make sure
the contractor is fully licensed with
local and state governments, if required
check with your local jurisdiction to
ensure the license is valid and up-to-date
— do not base the contractor's license
with a business card or verbal commitment
lookup state, county and city governments
for information on the contractor's license
for professional services: http://www.statelocalgov.net
·
make sure the contractor is
fully insured and carries worker's compensation,
liability insurance and property damage
insurance — ask
to review the documentation
·
check with your local Better
Business Bureaus, building associations,
and other consumer protection agencies: view the Better
Business Bureau
ensure that there is no outstanding complaints,
fines, or penalties issued against the contractor
— if so, make sure the contractor provides
a valid explanation
meet with the
contractor face-to-face — be prepared
to show what work needs to be performed
·
be detail in your
specs — this increases the likelihood
that the contractor is the right person
for the job
·
be prepared
to ask questions about the contractor
and your project — note that you
are looking for the person with best all-around
service and qualification
·
sample question include:
— business establishment
— time frame
— operation policy
— certifications and permits
— insurance
— crew and use of subcontractors,
if any
— review of sample projects
— other
NARI also provides a summary of "warning
signs" during interviews: click
here
Check References:
·
request for
a list of references from previous clients
— contact these references to inquiry
on the contractor's work habits, completion
schedule, clean up, and any other related
issues or problems that the previous client
may have experienced
sample questions to ask —
·
question:
did the contractor complete the project
within your satisfaction?
·
question:
was the project completed on time?
·
question:
did the contractor fulfill his or her part
of the contract or service agreement?
·
question:
was the contractor easy to communicate with?
·
question:
did the contractor and his crew showed up
on time?
·
question:
were you satisfied with the subcontractors
that your contractor used?
·
question:
would you recommend this contractor again
without hesitation?
