Congratulations on becoming a first-time homeowner. Homeownership is the one of most important investments people make, and most people rightfully take pride in their homes by keeping them in top shape or making improvements to meet their changing lifestyles. This can mean updating the kitchen or bath, adding a deck or patio, giving the house a facelift with new siding, or perhaps putting on a new roof.
      
The key to a successful remodeling or renovation experience is to make sure you hire a home improvement contractor who is a respected professional. There are many reputable contractors who bring honor to their profession. Unfortunately, the less-than-reputable contractors who take shortcuts or who are not competent to handle the job damage the image of reputable contractors and the industry as a whole.

In the interest of consumer protection, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Hartford County recommends that homeowners do their homework before signing a contract. The HBA of Hartford County Remodelors™ Council—a special council within the HBA—has outlined vital steps to follow known as the five R’s: Referrals, Registration, Résumé, References, Requirements.

1. Ask for Referrals from friends or relatives who have had work done. Another good source for obtaining a list of contractors is a professional trade association. Once you narrow the list down to three or four, it’s time for step 2. 

2. Verify Registration by contacting the State Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) to confirm that the contractors selected are registered. It’s the law! In 1988 the Home Improvement Act was passed, defining the requirements for doing home improvement work in the state; the protective measures homeowners should take; and what recourse is available. A Guaranty Fund is set aside from the home improvement contractors’ annual registration fees. This Fund offers recourse to homeowners who have legal judgment against a contractor due to a poorly or never completed job. Once the registration is confirmed, it’s interview time. 

3. Request a Résumé. Determine how long the contractor has been in business and check for advanced professional education. Two good indicators are the Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) and the Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) credentials. These designations reflect a degree of national recognition by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Ask about any other professional degrees or credentials, and if the contractor belongs to a professional trade organization.
4. Check References. Request permission to visit the sites where the contractor has worked, and to speak with former customers about the contractor’s workmanship and how he or she met commitments. Make certain that the contractor has all necessary and current insurance and liability coverage. Because the lowest bid isn’t always the best bid, be sure when comparing proposals that all quotes are based on equal product quality and brand name. Specify details such as whether the floor to be installed is oak or another wood product, and compare other materials or brands to be used in the job you would like done.
5. Specify Requirements. Ask each contractor to submit a proposal in writing based on the project discussed. The agreement should specify all the conditions and terms that are to be met by the customer and the contractor.

The Main Points to Include in a Written Proposal

* DCP State of Connecticut Registration Number
* Description of work to be done
* Price and payment schedule
* Start and completion dates (This may need to be flexible due to weather and variable conditions.)
* Clean-up responsibility and debris removal
* Allowances (what is allowed by the contractor for certain items) or owner’s choices. The contractor gives a price for the entire project and within that price is incorporated certain allowances (such as cabinets, appliances, light fixtures, flooring, or carpeting) when there is flexibility in the cost.
* Work to be performed by others
* A Notice of Cancellation
* All guarantees and warrantees
* Required taxes
* Change orders (Revisions must be in writing.)
* Necessary permits (It is ultimately the homeowner’s responsibility to make sure the contractor has taken out all the necessary permits.)
      
Ever since the first homesteaders staked their claims, homeownership has been recognized as an integral part of the American Dream. Doing your homework and following simple guidelines will help you realize that dream.

Ann Beaudin is Director of Marketing & Education for the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Hartford County, a professional trade organization founded in 1944, representing builders, remodelers, and associated trade professionals from Hartford, Middlesex, and Tolland Counties. The HBA has also been the producer of the Original Connecticut Home Show & Lifestyles Exposition since 1948.