One of the most important aspects of a successful home remodeling or renovation project is having a clear, comprehensive contract. Between a project you’ll be pleased with for years to come, or one that turns into an expensive headache, this can make all the difference. Make sure to consider the following items below as you negotiate your agreement since a contract protects you, your budget, and your property. Today, we at My General Contractor would like to discuss your contract with a general contractor.
What Should Be in a General Contractors Contract?
General Contractor Insurance. You can request that his or her insurance details are stated in the contract, though the contractor’s proof of insurance documents may not be attached to the contract itself. Make sure that any contractor you hire has that coverage and find out what the proper amount of liability insurance is for your area.
General Contractor Licensing. Ensure the proper licensing to meet your city’s requirements and any licensing required to do specialized work like electrical or plumbing, are possessed by the contractor. Request that the license numbers and information is included in the contract.
Construction Scheduling & Dilemmas. One of the most common sources of problems on a home remodeling job is haphazard scheduling. You should still have schedule details defined in your contract. Key dates to include are the expected finish date and important milestones along the way and understand delays due to material availability or weather may not be avoidable, and minor delays are almost certain to occur.
General Contractor Warranties. A warranty for work done is usually offered by most reputable contractors in all trades. Be certain your contractor’s warranty clearly spells out what is and is not covered, and the length of time for various coverages prior to you signing a contract.
Construction Work Details. To help you to stay in control of both timing and costs, detailing the scope of work to be done is ideal. Work details could be a short or long list, depending on what your project entails. For example, a detailed scope of work necessary for a more straightforward task, such as having new flooring installed will be shorter, whereas the work for a room addition that requires a number of different subcontractors will be much more detailed. Make certain everything is in writing before your project begins, no matter the type of project. Types and colors of finishes, material specifications, expectations about site maintenance and cleanup, definitions on who is responsible for various permits and permissions, and much more can be included in the details.
Payment Agreements. You and your contractor agree on when payments are to be made, which eliminates billing hassles by having payment schedule in writing. With certain milestones, completion percentages, or the delivery of products such as new windows or carpeting, you can and should tie payments to. Payment should never be made in full for an unfinished project, no matter how you determine your schedule.
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Many homeowners forego the process entirely and simply hire the first contractor they call since vetting the qualifications of various contractors can take so much time. Tragically, this can leave you unprotected against unscrupulous contractors or poor workmanship. Take the time to shop around for a reputable contractor. My General Contractor provides a number general contracting services including Turnkey Projects, New Construction Projects, Remodels & Renovations, Site Improvements, Commercial Interior Fit Outs or Build Out, and Taking Over an Existing Construction Project. Call us today for fast, efficient and high quality construction services.
