Common Questions:
What is the difference between a General Contractor, Sub-Contractor, and a Handy-man?
Handy-man services are great for small scope repairs, but they tend to be a "Jack of All Trades" but also a "Master of None". A General Contractor will have an advanced level of understanding about all of the aspects required to build or repair a home, which allows them to coordinate, monitor, and supervise the project while sourcing materials and labor to complete the job. General Contractors use a network of skilled and licensed Sub-contractors who are specialized in their own individual fields.
How do I select a contractor?
Check references, BBB, years in business, certifications, and licenses. Most cities require general contractors to be registered in order to obtain building permits. Check with you state for license requirement.
How long does it take to remodel a house?
The duration of the project schedule is based on the extent of work that is contracted. Simply put, the bigger the project then the longer that would take. We provide a detailed estimated timeline for the project along with every estimate.
Do I have to make full payment up front for contracted services?
No. Most general contractors will request a project initiation deposit. Once construction has started, progress draws can be made for the completed portion of the work. Hold 10% until all work is completed.
Do I need to ask for liability insurance certificate?
Yes. A reputable general contractor will have general liability insurance and can get a current certificate sent directly to you.
Is a General Contractor required to be EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certified?
Any contractor working on a property built before 1978, that may have lead based paint, will need to have an EPA certified agent conduct a lead test if more than 6 square feet of painted surface are planned to be disturbed. Airborne lead particles can be extremely hazardous to anyone that breathes them in, and certain precautions and remediation procedures must be followed. EPA website has a link where you can check a firms registration status and EPA rules regarding lead based paint.
Do I need a building permit?
Additions or removal of structural load bearing walls, plumbing, electrical and mechanical usually require permits; which must be filed for by a licensed sub-contractor in that field. More and more cities are requiring permits for other projects including fences, swimming pools, and concrete work. Always check with your city building department for permit requirements in the early stages of project planning.
What is a normal warranty?
Most handy-man services do not provide any warranties, while reputable renovation/remodel firms often offer up to a full 1 year warranty. Material manufacturers warranties may apply for an extended amount of time on the products, appliances, fixtures, used We recommend you refer to the owners manuals and manufacturer websites regarding product warranties. New home construction should always be covered by home owner’s warranties.
Why does remodeling/building seem to be expensive?
Remodeling projects typically require all of the same tradesmen that are required to build a new home, but also often begin with demolition services as well. The cost of materials and quality labor will be dictated by the selections you make. To bargain hunt on labor and material can result in less than desired results.
Remember this is not just a house it is your home.
What is the difference between a General Contractor, Sub-Contractor, and a Handy-man?
Handy-man services are great for small scope repairs, but they tend to be a "Jack of All Trades" but also a "Master of None". A General Contractor will have an advanced level of understanding about all of the aspects required to build or repair a home, which allows them to coordinate, monitor, and supervise the project while sourcing materials and labor to complete the job. General Contractors use a network of skilled and licensed Sub-contractors who are specialized in their own individual fields.
How do I select a contractor?
Check references, BBB, years in business, certifications, and licenses. Most cities require general contractors to be registered in order to obtain building permits. Check with you state for license requirement.
How long does it take to remodel a house?
The duration of the project schedule is based on the extent of work that is contracted. Simply put, the bigger the project then the longer that would take. We provide a detailed estimated timeline for the project along with every estimate.
Do I have to make full payment up front for contracted services?
No. Most general contractors will request a project initiation deposit. Once construction has started, progress draws can be made for the completed portion of the work. Hold 10% until all work is completed.
Do I need to ask for liability insurance certificate?
Yes. A reputable general contractor will have general liability insurance and can get a current certificate sent directly to you.
Is a General Contractor required to be EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certified?
Any contractor working on a property built before 1978, that may have lead based paint, will need to have an EPA certified agent conduct a lead test if more than 6 square feet of painted surface are planned to be disturbed. Airborne lead particles can be extremely hazardous to anyone that breathes them in, and certain precautions and remediation procedures must be followed. EPA website has a link where you can check a firms registration status and EPA rules regarding lead based paint.
Do I need a building permit?
Additions or removal of structural load bearing walls, plumbing, electrical and mechanical usually require permits; which must be filed for by a licensed sub-contractor in that field. More and more cities are requiring permits for other projects including fences, swimming pools, and concrete work. Always check with your city building department for permit requirements in the early stages of project planning.
What is a normal warranty?
Most handy-man services do not provide any warranties, while reputable renovation/remodel firms often offer up to a full 1 year warranty. Material manufacturers warranties may apply for an extended amount of time on the products, appliances, fixtures, used We recommend you refer to the owners manuals and manufacturer websites regarding product warranties. New home construction should always be covered by home owner’s warranties.
Why does remodeling/building seem to be expensive?
Remodeling projects typically require all of the same tradesmen that are required to build a new home, but also often begin with demolition services as well. The cost of materials and quality labor will be dictated by the selections you make. To bargain hunt on labor and material can result in less than desired results.
Remember this is not just a house it is your home.