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Great Ideas for Your Home
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A contract is a document that clearly states the expectations and
responsibilities of the parties involved in a project and protects each
party's rights concerning the project. The signed contract is legally
binding, but it should really be considered a statement of trust
between contractor and homeowner. Do not rely on oral agreements.
Projects differ; we recommend you seek legal advice for all contracts.
A contract should contain the following:
Scope of work. The contract should clearly define all work that is
to be done. This includes, but is not limited to, the overall scope
plus individual aspects such as foundation, framing, plumbing,
electrical, roofing and all finish work down to the color of the paint
and brick. A budget of what can be spent on hardware, appliances,
windows and doors should be listed.
Materials and equipment. Make sure the contract identifies all
materials and products by name, style, quality, weight, color, brand
name and any other pertinent facts. Be specific about all details that
concern you. If you expect 2x6 walls instead of 2x4, make sure they are
specified. Make sure you understand the size of furnace and
air-conditioning unit that is being installed.
Schedule. Clearly indicate the date the job will begin. Discuss with
the contractor when the project will likely be finished and see if that
meets your expectations. Contractors often work on more than one job at
a time, so discuss what conflicts, if any, might arise with your
project. Ask for an estimated completion date in the contract. Keep in
mind, there are numerous factors that can delay a project, such as
weather, change orders, and unforeseen problems. Few contractors will
agree to sign a contract with a late penalty clause because many
unexpected factors can come in to play. Keep open communication with
your contractor through the building process to determine if the
project is progressing on time.
Insurance. The contract should state that the contractor will
provide proof of all required insurance coverage such as general
liability and workers' compensation for his own employees. The contract
should also verify that the contractor will require subcontractors to
have their own required insurance.
Warranties. Items to look for in your warranty are 1) The settlement
procedure in case of a disagreement between you and the builder. 2) How
and who to call if an emergency arises. 3) A listing of all items
covered under the warranty. Make sure warranties provided with any
appliances, equipment or materials used in the project are given to you.
Be sure to read through your contract carefully for the warranty the
builder provides. Whatever the contract offers in warranty protection
is the warranty you will be provided. Do not assume that there is a
one-year implied warranty or extra coverage.
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