Taking care of business

Now that the weather is getting warmer, it may be time for you to start that project that you have put off all winter. There are a lot of things to consider before starting a project on your house. Planning is the key to a successful project, whether it is big or small. Of course, determining the cost and time involved to complete the project is a very important part of planning.

If you are planning a smaller do-it-your self-project, the first thing is to determine the scope of the project and to make a complete list of all the material you will need for the project. This will help you determine the rough finish cost of the project. You may find it helpful to consult a friend that may have done a project like yours, or maybe a friend that is a contractor. Another consideration is, do you have the experience and time to complete the project?

If your project is going to require a contractor, you need to follow these procedures to help your project flow well and also achieve the finished project you want:

1. Planning the project
 Write a concise, clear scope of work to be done, exact type of materials to be used, brand names, style, size, color and grade of materials to be used.
 Consider the time and the disruption the project may entail.

2. How to find a Contractor
 Check with neighbors and friends that may have had work done recently.
 Check in the yellow pages.
 Check with your local hardware stores and local material supply stores.
 Check with local trades associations.




3. The bidding process
 Get at least three bids in writing .
 Make sure all of the contractors base their bids on your written scope of work (this will eliminate the confusion of very different pricing).
 Discuss time frames and inconveniences of the project.

4. Choosing a Contractor
 Ask the contractor for references.
 Make sure the contractor is licensed.
 Call the Better Business Bureau.

5. The Contract
 Have the full scope of work document in or attached to the contract.
 Include starting dates and completion dates.
 Set up the pay schedule.
 Ask for a penalty clause if the work is not completed on time.
 Make sure that there is a clause in the contract that stipulates that the contractor will obtain all necessary permits, and inspections.
 Any changes to the scope of work should be done in writing as an addendum.

6. Completion of work before final payment
 Write down any problems or questions you may have with the work (punch list).
 Discuss the punch list with your contractor and have him/ her make the finishing touches.
 Have your contractor supply you with lien wavers from him/ her and also lien wavers from any material suppliers and any sub contractors.
 Pay your contractor.

Anytime you have large repair or renovation work done on your home, it takes time and patience to complete. If any disputes arise over workmanship, or non-compliance with the contract, the
contractor must be notified in writing of your intentions to report them to an attorney or the Better Business Bureau.

Improvements add value to your home and are well worth the trouble, but make sure you understand what you are undertaking before you start. Taking care of your home is taking care of your investment.