|
|
|||||||
To help avoid becoming a victim of a contractor swindler, take the following precautions:
 |
The Department of Commerce licenses residential builders,
remodelers, roofers, and manufactured home installers. Ask
for the contractor’s
license number and contact the Department of Commerce to verify that
the builder is licensed and to learn if they have been the subject of
any disciplinary action. In the Twin Cities call 651-296-2488, or toll
free statewide at 800-657-3602. |
|
|
Ask for references: Every contractor will have
a list of references. Make a point to contact and ask former customers
if they were satisfied with the contractor’s work or if they encountered
any problems. Ask to see homes the contractor has built in your price
range. |
|
|
Ask your contractor: How long have they been in business?
Where and under what name? Who are their subcontractors? How long have
they worked together? Have they been the subject of any legal action
regarding their work? |
|
|
Contact the builder association
in your area: There are
20 local builder associations in Minnesota and the Builders Association
of Minnesota will gladly tell you which one to contact. If the contractor
you have chosen is a member, the association will have more specific
information. |
|
|
Contact the Better Business
Bureau: They may be able to
tell you if any complaints have been filed against the contractor. |
|
|
After you hire a contractor: It’s a good idea
to make sure the contractor has obtained the proper permits. For most
projects,
the contractor must obtain building or zoning permits before beginning
the work. Check with your city or county. |
|
|
Engage in high-pressure sales tactics |
|
|
Refuse to provide written estimates or contracts |
|
|
Fail to obtain proper permits or request that the homeowner
get them |
|
|
Refuse to provide their license number |
|
|
Require full or substantial payment before work begins |
|
|
The contract between you and the contractor must
be in writing and include: —A summary of the work to be done —A description of materials or a list of standard features included —The total contract price or how the price will be calculated |
|
|
The contractor also must provide to you, at
no cost, a copy of all documents including proposals, quotations, change
orders, and purchase orders when signed. Any changes to the conditions
of the agreement, even minor changes, should be in writing as well. |
|
|
It’s also a good idea to include start and completion
dates, even though justifiable delays may happen. |
|
|