Check List for Remodelers

When your home requires expensive repairs or remodeling, all agreements with contractors should be in writing. While some contractors may offer you a written agreement, others may operate under a “handshake agreement." To protect yourself, you should provide your own agreement that is signed by the contractor and you. Always keep a copy of the signed contract. The contract should include the following:

• Your name and address of the property that needs work.
• Contractor’s name, company name, address, phone number and professional license numbers.
• Detailed description of the job to be performed. Specify materials to be used, such as brand names, quality, quantity, color and size.
• Date payment is due. The Attorney General's Office recommends that you do not make full payment until all work is complete.
• Any warranty or guarantees.
• When and how any debris and materials will be removed by the time the job is completed. Also indicate how the work area will be cleaned up as the project progresses.
• Requirement that any changes to the contract be pre-authorized.

Other steps to take:

• Always check contractor’s credentials.
  • Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax identification number and, where applicable, a business license.
  • Don't hesitate to ask a roofing contractor for proof of insurance. In fact, insist on seeing copies of his liability coverage and workers' compensation certificates. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of the job. Many building and home owners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured roofing contractors. Also, if a contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.
  • Check to see if the roofing contractor is properly licensed. Double check the validity of their state license with the Secretary of State.
• Work with companies that are known or recommended by someone you trust.
• Do not pay the full price in advance for services you have not received. Only make full payment once the terms of your agreement have been met.
• Have the contractor list the product manufacturers with which his firm is a licensed or approved applicator. Many products require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality.
• Carefully read and understand any product warranties offered, and watch for provisions that would void it.

To check for complaints made against a contractor, contact the Attorney General’s Protection Hotline at 1-800-392-8222 for Missouri and 1-877-844-5461 for Illinois, or contact your local Better Business Bureau.

Keep a healthy skepticism about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors' below-cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors often are uninsured and perform substandard work. Remember, price is only one of the criteria for selecting a contractor. Professionalism, experience and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily in your decision.