Choosing a Contractor

contractorsWhen choosing a contractor for any fuels reduction project, it is a good idea to follow these guidelines:

  • Plan your project thoroughly, making your priorities clear.
  • Shop around before hiring someone; get a list of at least three written bids on your project.
  • When requesting bids, provide contractors with accurate plans or drawings that will enable them to make an appropriate bid for the scope of work.
  • Make sure the contractor is properly licensed.
  • Pay only 10 percent of the project price or $1,000 as a down payment, whichever is less, and make sure your contract provides for a “retention.”
  • Make sure everything you and your contractor have agreed to is included in your contract, and don’t sign anything until you understand and agree with all terms.
  • Ask your contractor about inconveniences that may occur, and plan accordingly.
  • Keep a job file.
  • Take precautions to prevent mechanic’s liens from being filed against your property and ask for lien releases from subcontractors and materials suppliers.
  • Make frequent inspections of the work, including a final walk-through.
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