Choosing the Right Contractor

When taking on a home improvement project, it’s important to get the right person to do the job. Anyone can promise a perfect finished product; you need to be sure you’re working with a company that has a solid reputation, will stand by their work to ensure your satisfaction, will respect your investment and will help you protect it. Money Crashers and HomeAdvisor have great tips on what to consider when choosing a home improvement contractor and how to do so wisely. Here are a few of our own: 1. Stay local!

There are several benefits to selecting a locally-based contractor. First, they’ll have an established presence in your hometown, which means you’ll likely receive faster service and be better able to remain in contact with the company. Should any issues with the workmanship arise, you’ll have access to the company to get it corrected. Second, operating a physical place of business will require a valid business

license, which can easily be verified. Which brings us to number 2… 2. Check credentials! Be sure to ask candidates to provide proof of valid license to perform the work you’ll be hiring them to complete, as well as proof of insurance. You should also ask for a list of references who will vouch for their customer service and quality of work. Sites like Angie’s List also provide verified reviews specific to service providers. 3. Get it in writing!

Be sure that you have a signed written agreement that details all work to be done, the cost and terms of payment. This will give both you and the contractor something to go

by and avoid any assumptions along the way. You should also ask for a written copy of any warranty you’re getting. Read over it carefully, ask any questions you need to so you’re clear on the terms and conditions up front, and keep it handy in case you need to request warranty service later on. 4. Know what your downpayment SHOULD be!

Some states have strict regulations on what contractors can require as a downpayment for residential work (note: this varies state to state). For example, Maryland contractors can require no more than 33% of the full contract price as a downpayment before work begins (learn more about Maryland regulations here). Virginia homeowners have the flexibility to negotiate their own terms, under the guidance that their downpayment should not exceed 30%, if possible. By contrast, in California downpayments are restricted to $1,000 or 10% of the total contract price, whichever is less. The moral of the story? Make sure whatever your contractor is requesting is in line with state regulations, and NEVER pay for 100% of the work before 100% of the work is complete! Custom Tub and Tile, LLC is a Maryland Home Improvement Contractor (MHIC #102757) specializing in bathroom and kitchen remodeling. Our process provides the

perfect solution for revitalizing your bathroom and kitchen surfaces without the expense or hassle of renovation. See what we can do for you!