Contractor Selection Tips from Clark Adams

The success or failure of a residential home improvement project, according to the California Contractors State License Board, is more dependent upon contractor selection than any other decision a homeowner will make.  Because contractor selection is so critical to getting the job done right the first tim, the CSLB has provided a checklist for homeowners to use in their selection process.

The checklist is designed to give remodeling consumers a better picture of all the potential contractor by listing recommended practices and certain requirements of all home improvement contracts and alert consumers to any potential problems or liabilities before a contract is entered into.

• Did your contractor tell you whether or not they carry General Liability Insurance? While not a requirement, it is a requirement to disclose whether or not a policy is in force.  The CSLB strongly recommends all contractors carry this insurance.
• What does this insurance cover? It is supposed to cover third party bodily injury and accidental property damage, but not the quality of the work performed by the contractor.
• How can you make sure the contractor is insured? If requested, the contractor is required to provide you with the name and telephone number of the insurance company.  You should call and verify coverage and date of expiration. 
• What about a contractor who claims to be self-insured? A self-insured contractor has made a decision to be personally liable for losses that would ordinarily be covered by insurance.  As yourself, if something went wrong, would this contractor be able to cover those losses?
• Did you contact the State License Board and check the status of the License? Call 1-800-321-CSLB or visit the website at www.cslb.ca.gov.
• Did you verify that the contractor has Workman's Compensation Insurance? The website address will disclose if a policy is in force.  If the contractor has no employees, it is not required, but beware of the contractor says they use employees instead of subcontractors and there is no insurance.
• Did you get at least three local references from each contractor?  Are they local and can you call them?
• Are building permits required? Make sure to have who is responsible for obtaining and paying for permits in writing.
• Does the contract include a detailed description of the work to be done and the materials used? This description should include brand names, model numbers, colors, sizes, quantities and options.  More details in the contract now prevent disputes later.
• Is there a schedule of payments? Maximum deposit is ten percent of the job or $1,000.  Whichever is less.
• Are all changes or additions to the contract in writing? This is a requirement and reduces the possibility of later disagreements.
  

Remember, the more time you spend up-front assessing contractor qualifications, the greater chance you have of experiencing a successful remodeling project that will enhance your quality of life for years to come!

For more information regarding window and door replacement, you can contact the professionals at Clark Adams Co. Windows & Doors or visit their showrooms at 2411 Artesia Blvd. in Redondo Beach or 23841 Hawthorne Blvd. in Torrance.  You can call for your free in-home estimate at (310) 214-2222.  Visit their website at www.clarkadams.com