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Consumer Tips
A home is one of the largest investments which Americans make and it is also one of the most important. Remodels and renovations will enhance the value of your home. Here are some tips to help you determine which contractor you can count on, to professionally complete your next project.
Before hiring a contractor:
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Always check their State Labor & Industries report.
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Check their standing with the Better Business Bureau.
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If your home was built before 1978, before beginning work,
contractors must provide owners, tenants, and child-care facilities
with a copy of EPA's lead hazard information pamphlet, Renovate
Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child
Care Providers, and Schools (PDF), and must
document compliance with this requirement.
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Check with the EPA to
ensure your contractor is certified as a Lead Renovator and registered
as a Certified Firm.
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Ask for references, testimonials, and/or client replies from their prior clients.
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Check their experience and knowledge base, reliability, and credibility to ensure they are prepared to handle your project.
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Ensure they have a network of resources to assist you with the needs of your project.
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Select a professional remodeler with experience in your project. Remember, lowest price does not ensure a successful remodeling project.
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Ensure that your job meets or exceeds applicable building codes and regulations.
- Check the contractor's insurance to protect yourself against underinsured or non-insured contractors.
Questions to ask your contractor's references:
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Would you hire this company again?
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Did you find the contractor easy to work with?
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How well did the contractor deal with problems that arose?
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Did the contractor keep you informed of the job progression?
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Did the contractor supply you with paperwork in a timely fashion?
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Did the contractor maintain a neat jobsite, provide regular clean-up and haul away debris?
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Did the contractor keep labor and materials delays to a minimum so that your job could be started and completed on time and within budget?
View answers to frequently asked questions... |
It is heart warming to read about your efforts to help this year’s Rampathon recipient. I know that you have been a pillar of the community for many years, helping with lots of projects; it is especially nice to read your story when the building industry has been so affected by the down economy. I wanted you to know that what you are doing is appreciated and touches the hearts of many, not just the ramp recipient family. - Eleanor Olsen, Total Spaces Design, Seattle
It’s always a pleasure working with Irons Brothers Construction. Your company is so efficient. - Roger Turk, Northlight Photography, Seattle
I’ve been very impressed with how thoughtful, savvy, and involved he is. - Denny Conner, Owner of Conner Remodeling and Design, Fremont Neighborhood, Seattle
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