Checklist for Selecting the
Correct Remodeling Professional

Stability & Dependability

Select a company with a proven track record.

How long has the company been in business under their present name? Do they return your phone calls promptly? (If they’re hard to reach now, how will they respond if there’s a problem on your job?) Try to choose a company that will complete the project on time AND back up their workmanship afterward.

Budget

Look for the best proposal and the best qualified remodeler for your job—not just the lowest price.

BEWARE: If one of the proposals is much lower than the others, it’s a sign that either a specification was missed or a short-cut will be used. Such “bargains” usually cost you more in the long run.

Compare qualifications.

Reputation and References

Request references from anyone furnishing you with an estimate. And don’t just glance at their references… Call them.

Contrary to popular belief, most building trades DO NOT HAVE TO BE LICENSED. This makes it easy for fly-by-night operators to solicit.

Take time to look at samples of their workmanship and jobs in progress.

Your home is too important to entrust to an amateur. Make sure you know the quality of materials and workmanship to expect from your remodeler.

Call the Better Business Bureau and check out the remodeler’s reliability report.

Certificates of Insurance

Ask for certificates of insurance directly from their insurance company before they start work. DO NOT TAKE THEIR WORD FOR IT OR ACCEPT COPIES OF THE CERTIFICATES.

Idaho state law requires that remodeling contractors carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage.

BEWARE: Don’t do business with a remodeler who cannot provide insurance certificates. If an uninsured worker is hurt on your property, you may be liable for financial damages.

Legal Concerns & Final Contract

Get it in writing.

As soon as you have paid for the completed project, obtain a Lien Release from the remodeler.

When you select a remodeling company, request a written contract with all specifications of the project, including the scope of work, quality of materials to be used, when work will begin and end, total price, payment requirements and terms, and if there is a warranty.

A deposit is usually required at the time the contract is signed with additional payments required as work progresses through various stages.

This releases you as the property owner from any further financial liability for materials or labor purchased for your project.

Keep in mind, this is a condensed version of steps to take when attempting to select the right remodeling company for your project. For more detailed information, contact NARI of Idaho at 208-322-8191 or the Better Business Bureau at 208-342-4649.