A key component of <\/span>effectively managing contractors<\/span> is establishing clear expectations and rules for communication. You don\u2019t want your contractor(s) calling you about every little thing, but you also don\u2019t want them to be completely unresponsive to your outreach should you have a question or a concern.<\/span><\/p>\n

A lack of clear communication can easily delay a project and increase the budget, so it\u2019s important to set expectations upfront about how important communication is to you and how often you\u2019d like to keep in touch throughout the project.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s tough to beat experience. Working with a contractor who knows how to handle all the moving parts of a project, is experienced working within different budgets, and understands <\/span>construction safety management<\/span> can go a long way. Realizing that the unexpected can happen, it\u2019s also a benefit to work with an experienced contractor who can stay nimble and quick on their feet when last minute delays or reroutes pop up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Again, finding a contractor with the proper qualifications and licensing is one of the most important details to look for. You want to ensure the contractor(s) you partner with have the necessary requirements from the State License Board, as well as the proper insurance coverage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Partnering with a contractor excited to provide proof of work is a good sign. Similar to referrals, knowing firsthand the person you\u2019re heading into business with has completed similar projects before is reassuring. It\u2019s also nice to work with professionals proud of their work and eager to tackle their jobs with precision, skill, and care.<\/span><\/p>\n

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When <\/span>creating a contract between a contractor and a homeowner<\/span>, it\u2019s important to specify who is responsible for securing the building permit. It\u2019s important to note that unlicensed contractors cannot secure building permits.<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding your <\/span>homeowner\u2019s rights with a contractor <\/span>is invaluable. To know how to get out of a contract with a contractor, you must go through the terms of the contract and review the wording of the cancellation policy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All contracts should include the “Notice of Right to Cancel Policy.” Although each state has its cancellation deadline, most states allow customers to cancel signed contracts within three business days, with no further action required on the part of the consumer.<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll only need to mail in a signed and dated written notice of cancellation on or before midnight of the third business day following the signing of the contract. Once mailed, the notice becomes valid, as long as it is sent to the contractor’s correct address.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many unlicensed contractors do not maintain an insurance policy, which can lead to out-of-pocket expenses for homeowners. Faulty work completed by an uninsured and unlicensed contractor is not covered by your homeowner\u2019s insurance. Additionally, product warranties can be voided due to the work done by this type of contractor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Yes. If a contractor believes they have found the homeowner to be in breach of the contract, they can file a lawsuit. The same applies to a homeowner who thinks the contractor hasn\u2019t held up their end of the contract.<\/span><\/p>\n