Whenever you are hiring a company to do a major (or even not so major) renovation on your home, make sure you read and agree with all the terms outlined in the contract. All contracts will be different but there are definitely some points you’ll find in every one. One of these things is the scheduled timeline that a project is to be completed on. If your contractor disappears for a week at a time with no mention to you, or you find that the process is too behind to be completed on schedule—both of these things can be defined as a breach of contract. Pay attention to what they said would be finished–and what actually is. For example, if the new bathroom cabinets were slated to be installed by a certain date–and it’s 2 weeks past that date–you’ve got an issue. Next, if the contractor has aligned themselves as an expert and the work performed is shoddy or mishandled—this too can be proof of a problem. Also, if you’re entrusting your contractor to make decisions on your behalf, make sure he/she knows exactly what you like. If you’re not a modern person, and he/she installs something different than the unique traditional vanities you suggested, raise a red flag. You’ll want to go over each item carefully before you sign and make sure that you are in agreement with ALL the terms. If not, ask for an amended contract to address the issues you’ve come up with. Home improvement is costly—so cover your bases!
Post by: Randy Ritzenthaler