Feb 8, 2006 10:39 pm US/Central
Tips For Choosing A Home Repair Contractor
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
Tips for choosing a home repair contractor from the City of Chicago Department of Consumer Services
A majority of contractors provide good service, but it's a good idea to protect yourself when choosing a contractor. The following tips will help find a home repair contractor who will provide quality service.
- Ask for the contractor's City of Chicago home repair license number
- Hire only contractors with a valid City of Chicago license for the type of work to be performed (electrical, plumbing, masonry, etc.)
- Never do business with door-to-door salesmen or telemarketers
- Check references of previously completed projects
- Get bids from at least three licensed contractors
- Beware of contractors who can only be contacted by pagers, cell phones and answering services
- Beware of the statement: "I can only get you this price today." A professional contractor will offer quality and value without using hard-sell tactics
- The City of Chicago can verify that a contractor is licensed. A list of licensed contractors is available online through the Buildings Department. DCS can also verify a contractor is licensed by phone: 312.744.4006.
Signing a Contract
After you've decided on a contractor for home repair, it's important to carefully review the contract for work before signing. The list below is an outline of your rights and what to watch for prior to signing the contract.
- If the contract is signed inside your home, you have three business days to cancel the contract and receive a refund
- Always get a copy of every paper you sign
- Before signing any contract, make sure it contains all details of the work
- Never sign a contract that contains blank or unfilled spaces
- Beware of a one-page contract or proposal. The contract should outline all specifics of the project description.
- Space out your payments over the duration of the job and tie them to job performance and/or progress
- If you want specific services or brand name materials, specify that in the contract
- The names and addresses of all subcontractors should be included in the contract
- Identify who obtains the building permits and who cleans up the site in the contract. Ultimately, homeowners are responsible for obtaining permits, so if a contractor agrees to get the permits, make certain it is in the contract.
- Only give a small deposit of the job's total cost
- If changes to the job are necessary after work has begun, amend the contract with written change orders
- Don't sign any papers, such as a certificate of completion, or pay the final bill until the work is done.
(© MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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