Beams Painting

Typically, remodeling contracts include a highly detailed scope of work and cost breakdown. They also typically include lien waivers, which prevent a contractor from placing liens on the home for unpaid labor or materials.

It should also stipulate start and finish dates, along with target completion targets for important phases of the job. It should also state who is responsible for procuring licenses and permits, while respecting codes and zoning laws.

The Scope of Work

A scope of work is an important document in a renovation project. It sets the expectations for the job and helps minimize misunderstandings throughout the process. Homeowners and contractors should create a document together that clearly lays out the stipulations for the project. It’s also useful for determining how to handle unexpected challenges, such as water damage or a hidden electrical problem.

The scope should include a task list, the contractor’s responsibilities and deliverables, and any other specific requirements such as licensing, insurance, permits, or inspections. It should also describe how much the job is expected to cost and provide a payment schedule based on the completion of various project milestones.

The contract should also include a section that specifies the materials and products to be used for the project. This helps avoid misunderstandings when reviewing the project plans, drawings and product selections. It should also state that any proposed changes to the product selections must be approved by both parties before implementation.

The Payment Schedule

A contractor payment schedule is an important part of a home renovation contract. It helps ensure contractors get paid on time and also allows them to keep tabs on their cash flow throughout the project.

This is important because builders can sometimes become tangled up in payments due to a variety of reasons including delayed client approval, the delivery of customer-provided fixtures and other issues beyond their control. The schedule should be clear and specific. For example, the builder might want a percentage payment of the total project cost tied to a project milestone such as rough plumbing and electric being completed or wallboard and trim being installed.

It is also a good idea to include reasons that the homeowner can terminate the contract without penalty through the use of a termination clause such as a lack of communication or poor quality work. Additionally, it is important to include a lien waiver so that the homeowner can be protected from subcontractors claiming a mechanics lien on their property for non-payment.

The Warranty

Most reputable builders will include a warranty for their work. This is a good idea because it gives homeowners peace of mind in case something goes wrong. But it’s important to read the fine print and understand what is covered.

The length of the warranties can vary, and some types of repairs are excluded by certain policies. Make sure to find out if the builder is going to be responsible for product failures or if it’s up to the manufacturers. Also, be sure to keep records of all correspondence with the company to avoid disputes in the future.

Lastly, be sure the contract includes a lien waiver. Without this, any contractor that fails to pay for materials or labor can file a mechanics lien against your property. This can delay your project and complicate the payment process. Ask your builder to provide this before starting the work. It may also be required by your state’s consumer protection laws.

The Inspections

Unless you are doing a small, cosmetic job that doesn’t require permits, any legitimate home remodel or renovation will have building department inspections of the framing, plumbing and electrical work. A licensed contractor will have each stage of the rework inspected and signed off by the building inspector.

This process is not just to check for compliance with codes, but also to identify problems that could later lead to expensive repair bills. For example, if you have wood-destroying insect infestation, water or roof damage or structural issues, it is best to address these as early as possible rather than wait until they are more costly to fix.

Your remodeling contract should stipulate that any payments you make are tied to the completion of specific stages of the project and that a home inspector will evaluate the work to ensure it is up to code. This will protect you against contractors who cut corners, take shortcuts and use substandard materials to save on costs, making future repairs more costly.

a and j home improvements provides professional remodeling, repair and installation services for both residential and commercial properties. Services include flooring repair and replacement, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, trim work, engineered marble showers & tubs, and more. This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. BBB encourages you to check with the appropriate agency to be certain that any requirements are currently being met.

About Us

Located in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, A and J Home Improvements has been the preferred home renovation and remodeling company of Florence, Tuscumbia, Sheffield, and the surrounding Muscle Shoals cities for over twenty years. They offer high-quality services to bring the creative ideas of their clients to life within their homes. They can assist with kitchen renovations, bathroom upgrades, decks, and closets, among other projects. Their work is distinguished by their signature craftsmanship and attention to detail. They have a great eye for design, and they can bring out the beauty of your space in ways that you might not have expected.

Services

A & J Home Improvements offers a wide range of services including remodeling, renovation, and repair solutions. The company specializes in kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring installation and repair, trim work, and Engineered Marble installation of showers, tubs, and vanity tops. It also offers concrete and painting services. A and J Home Improvements serves clients in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.

We hired them for our basement project. They were able to do everything we wanted and it looks amazing! We would highly recommend them.

Your trust is our top concern, so businesses can’t pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about our review process.

This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. BBB encourages consumers to check with the appropriate agency to be certain that all requirements are currently being met.

This company was recommended to me by a friend who used them for their home remodel. They were extremely knowledgeable, honest and helpful with my questions and concerns. I will definitely call them again for any future projects.

Contact Us

Whether you need a kitchen, bathroom or a new deck, the professionals at A & J Home Improvements are ready to help you. They are highly skilled craftsmen with creative ideas that will bring your vision to life. They have been trusted by Florence, Tuscumbia, Sheffield and Muscle Shoals homeowners for years to get the job done right. This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. Click here to see if this company is required to be licensed or registered.

BuildZoom has not received any reviews for this contractor. You can be the first to write a review!

About Jeff Nagle

Jeff Nagle is the founder and principal of Heritage Leaders, a for-purpose consultancy that specialises in accelerating the formation of leaders and teams. He has been working in the leadership and development space since 2014. He is also a co-founder of Fair Supply, a for-purpose law firm that works to operationalise the Modern Slavery Act within large corporations.

A and J Home Improvements is a reputable company that provides renovation, remodeling and other services to improve residential properties. They are committed to helping clients bring their creative visions to life within their homes. They are known for their signature craftsmanship and attention to detail. They have helped countless homeowners in Florence, Tuscumbia and Muscle Shoals achieve the look they desire for their homes. They have a highly skilled team of craftsmen and designers who can provide a wide range of home improvement solutions.

Home improvement construction can improve a property’s resale value and enhance its appeal. However, homeowners should carefully plan their renovation projects to avoid unexpected expenses and delays.

It is also important to hire a qualified and licensed contractor. Ask for references and check their reputation online. Choose a company with a physical business address and accreditation.

Home Additions

Home additions are a great way to increase your living space and add value to your property. They can be a more affordable option than moving, especially as your family’s needs change over time.

However, it’s important to plan well in advance and set aside enough money for your home renovation project. Depending on your local zoning laws and building codes, you may need to apply for a permit before beginning construction. Additionally, hiring an architect or designer can be a significant expense. Choosing an experienced contractor can help you get the most value for your investment. They’ll know how to avoid costly design mistakes and ensure the project meets your requirements. They can also complete the job more quickly than someone inexperienced. They work with other contractors and may have access to materials and labor more cheaply.

Bathroom Renovations

A full bathroom remodel is one of the most extensive home improvement projects. It can take weeks or even months to complete depending on the scale and complexity of the project. Adding features like walk-in tubs or accessible storage will add to the overall project timeline as well. If you are building a new bathroom or making structural changes, you will likely need to obtain permits and co-op or condo board approval.

A professional service can help you stay on schedule and ensure that your bathroom renovation is completed properly. DIY bathroom remodeling can be hazardous and cause damage to your home if not done correctly. The best way to increase your return on investment is by hiring a reputable construction company that has years of experience with residential home renovations.

Kitchen Renovations

A kitchen renovation aims to bring a home’s existing kitchen up to date. This is more affordable than a full remodel and can be used to add value to the property.

Renovating a kitchen involves the installation of new appliances, countertops, sinks and cabinets. It can also include painting or changing wall colors, refinishing floors, and upgrading hardware.

Some contractors offer design services in addition to their construction expertise, while others focus solely on building. Those that only provide construction services tend to charge higher rates.

If you live in a co-op or condo, renovating a kitchen can be more complicated than in a single-family house. You will need to consult with a design professional and follow the rules of your building’s renovation regulations, including insurance requirements, noise restrictions, and approval processes.

Plumbing & Electrical Renovations

While some new homeowners believe home improvement is a quick and easy process, there are many different aspects of the building and renovation process that require careful attention. From determining the best time to install electrical and plumbing fixtures to getting building permits when needed, it’s important for homeowners to know the entire home improvement construction process.

Integrating electrical and plumbing services for home renovation projects can save homeowners a lot of money in the long run. This is because it reduces the cost of hiring multiple contractors and coordinating their schedules. It also improves efficiency and ensures that both systems are installed correctly and safely. Lastly, it allows for better communication between the contractor and the homeowner. This can help avoid any mistakes or issues that may arise during the renovation project.

Exterior Renovations

The exterior of your home is the first impression you make, and a well-planned remodel can boost curb appeal and add value to your property. From improving energy efficiency to giving the house a fresh look, it’s one of the most popular renovation projects that can offer high return on investment.

Many homeowners embark on exterior renovations because they’re tired of the way their home looks or need to improve a particular feature. But there are also many practical improvements you can undertake such as ensuring the foundation is solid, septic systems are in good condition, and outdoor light fixtures work well.

Regardless of the nature of your project, hiring a professional home improvement contractor can help ensure that your renovation goes smoothly. Choosing a reliable builder should involve researching the company’s qualifications and customer reviews, and requesting quotations and time frames.

Home Improvement was a runaway hit for ABC and thrust Tim Allen into stardom. Richard Karn was initially brought on board for a pilot as Tim’s sidekick, Al Borland.

He later went on to star in the Air Bud series and the Hulu show Ctrl as well as host Family Feud and PEN15. He is returning to the small screen 30 years after Home Improvement in History Channel’s new building competition series Assembly Required (working title).

Tim Allen

Tim Allen is a multifaceted talent who has built a successful career in film, television, comedy, and automotive marketing. His activism and philanthropic endeavors have also added depth to his persona. He has become an icon in the entertainment industry and a role model for many.

He was born in Denver, Colorado, on June 13, 1953, to Martha Katherine (Fox) and Gerald M. Dick. His father was killed in a car accident when he was 11 years old, an event that shaped his life forever.

On a dare, he began his comedy career in 1975 at the Comedy Castle in Royal Oak, Michigan. He attended Western Michigan University and worked as a student radio personality while pursuing a degree in television production.

He has starred in several blockbuster films and television series, including Home Improvement. He has also voiced Buzz Lightyear in several Disney animated movies. He has even made forays into documentary filmmaking, narrating Disney’s nature film Chimpanzee.

Richard Karn

Richard Karn is an American actor and game show host. He is best known for his role as Al Borland on the hit ABC sitcom Home Improvement and for hosting Family Feud and GSN’s Bingo America. He has also appeared in a number of off-Broadway and regional productions. He is a spokesperson for Wayne-Dalton garage doors and hosts the Richard Karn Celebrity Golf Classic in Seattle, which raises money for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and Seattle’s Overlake Hospital.

The actor has a long list of film and television appearances, including roles on Air Bud, Snow Buddies, Desperately Seeking Susan, and Last Man Standing. He currently recurs in the Hulu series Pen15 and has hosted several shows, including Family Feud. Karn is married to actress Tudi Roche and they have one son. He is a native of Seattle, Washington. His mother, Louise Wilson, was a painter and died of bone marrow cancer in 1983.

Earl Hindman

Although he only appeared in the final episode of Home Improvement in 1998, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played middle child Randy on the show, became a ’90s heartthrob. He left the show after that to focus on his academics and went on to a career in environmental studies.

Earl Hindman, who portrayed Wilson the neighbor whose face was obscured by a fence on the show, died in 2003 at age 61 from lung cancer. He was born in Bisbee, Arizona and began acting while he was in high school. He worked in regional and off-Broadway theater before settling in New York City, where he had a lengthy acting career on both TV and film.

Model Debbe Dunning replaced Anderson as Heidi, the Tool Time Girl, beginning in 1992 and staying until the end of the show’s run. She went on to appear in Baywatch and a few other TV shows, but has remained mostly out of the spotlight since then.

Pamela Richardson

Actress Patricia Richardson is best known for her role as Jill Taylor on the ’90s sitcom Home Improvement. She has also starred in several other television shows and has earned a net worth of $20 million. She has also appeared in theater and commercials.

After acting in a number of regional and Broadway theater productions, she began booking commercials for products like fabric softener and diapers. She soon booked TV ads for these products and found that they paid much better than the theatre.

Pamela was written during the Enlightenment, a period in history that was marked by new developments in science, philosophy, and culture. It is often considered to be a feminist work, as it rejects traditional views of women and promotes new roles for them. However, the novel’s emphasis on Pamela’s fear of losing her virtue and the poor treatment of her by Mr. B are also problematic for some feminists.

While HGTV shows make it seem like home improvements always yield a solid return on investment, the truth is that not all renovations add value. Especially during a pandemic, it’s important to focus on upgrades that increase functional square footage and bring your property in line with the neighborhood.

For instance, finishing a basement is one upgrade that typically yields a good ROI. Another is replacing your outdated appliances with energy-efficient ones.

Kitchen

One of the most common reasons homeowners remodel is to modernize their kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances or to update the style to reflect their tastes. Other factors that inspire a kitchen upgrade include improving energy efficiency, expanding storage space, or making the space more family-friendly.

Oftentimes, upgrading kitchen functionality requires a more substantial change to the existing layout such as adding a pantry or reconfiguring cabinetry. However, even smaller changes like painting cabinets or changing the hardware on them can refresh the look of your kitchen without changing the overall layout.

Another simple, low-cost way to upgrade your kitchen is with a new backsplash. There are so many options out there from patterned tile to faux shiplap or even brushed metals which all work beautifully with various kitchen styles.

Lastly, consider updating your lighting fixtures. It’s an easy way to brighten up a room and can make the biggest difference. You can also add cabinet lighting to organize your utensils and cookware.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are used daily and can really take a beating. Even a small remodel can make your home more comfortable and increase its value.

New fixtures and appliances can improve energy efficiency in your home, helping you save money on utilities. Adding low-flow shower heads, faucets, and toilets is one of the most common ways to go green and make your bathroom more efficient.

You can also use a remodel to make your bathroom more comfortable by increasing storage. New cabinets and vanities can create more space to keep your belongings organized and free from clutter.

A dated or outdated bathroom can be a real turn-off for potential buyers, making your home less valuable. Adding a second full bath to your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your property. It makes the home more comfortable and appealing for you and any future owners. It will also make it easier to sell your house in the future.

Living Area

A living area is the total floor space used for direct habitation by a building’s residents. It includes not only apartment areas but also corridors, lift lobbies and other technical rooms that serve the building but are not used for direct living purposes. It is important that the correct living area calculation is used, particularly when comparing different buildings or apartments.

In Home Designer, the Living Area label is automatically generated and reports the area of the current floor specified as a livable space. It is recalculated every time you add, remove, resize or redefine a room or other structural object. By default, interior type rooms are included in this calculation, while exterior and hybrid type rooms are not. You can control which types are included in this calculation by using the Room Specification dialog.

You can change the way Living Area is calculated in the General Plan Defaults dialog, selecting either to measure from the walls’ main layer (the outer structural layer) or their surface.

Bedroom

Your bedroom is a place to rest and relax, so it should feel inviting and warm. If your bedroom is not up to par, you may want to consider upgrading it with unique additions that make the space feel more authentically yours.

If buying new furniture isn’t in the budget, you can still upgrade your bedroom by editing what is currently there and rearranging how it is arranged. This can help to improve the flow of the room so that you don’t run into things in the middle of the night or find yourself tripping over items on your way to sleep.

Bedroom upgrades also include furniture, like replacing nightstands with a sleek armoire or adding a storage ottoman for a pop of color and extra functionality. Other upgrades include lighting, such as switching to LED bulbs, which are a cost-effective change that reduces energy consumption and creates a stunning vibe in your home. You can also add a dimmer switch to let you easily set the mood in your bedroom.

Harmony home improvements offers a tailored approach to real estate. They specialize in purchasing properties “as-is,” enabling homeowners to bypass time-consuming and costly renovations.

They also function as real estate investors, absorbing the financial burdens associated with repairs. Their streamlined sale process is especially beneficial for those who may have limited resources.

3. Create a Sanctuary

Depending on your needs and the activities you enjoy, a self-care space can be as simple as a reading chair and soft rug for meditation and yoga or as large as an artistic studio or home gym. Either way, the most important aspect is a personal narrative and flexibility to adapt the space to your ever-changing lifestyle.

When creating a personal oasis, try adding a few small touches that help you feel calm and happy, like an essential oil diffuser, a plant or a cozy blanket. Using natural lighting with a dimmer helps keep the mood soft and relaxing.

A home should not only be beautiful, but it should also support mental health. That’s why Harmony Home Buyers prioritizes putting people first. Their transparent dealings and open communication with sellers help to alleviate stress by circumventing the typically hefty expenses associated with home repairs and renovations.

4. Create a Shared Space

If you share a home with family or roommates, be sure to set boundaries for personal space and activities. This will help prevent conflict and frustration over who can use what spaces when, and how.

If possible, design multipurpose areas that can change with your lifestyle over time. This might include a workout area that can double as a playroom, or a laundry room that can also serve as a pantry.

Keep shared areas clean and clutter free. Clutter can make it difficult to find items and can be frustrating for everyone who uses the area. Donate or sell unused items and assign responsibilities for maintaining organized areas in your home. If you need help improving your home, Harmony Home Improvement offers roofing, siding, gutters, replacement windows, and additions.

5. Get Organized

A clean and organized home is essential to your overall sense of well-being. However, the task of sprucing up your space can be overwhelming and daunting. Vig recommends starting small and tackling one room at a time, while keeping the most important goal in mind. A key to organizing your home is creating a place for everything and storing things where they are used most often. This helps to keep the clutter at bay and also increases the likelihood that items will get put away. If you’re ready to make your home a better place to live, contact us at Harmony Home Improvement llc for kitchen and bathroom remodeling, windows, doors, roofing, and siding services.

Home improvement projects can increase the value of a home or simply make living in it better. The industry is booming, and there are plenty of customers to go around.

Some examples of home improvement companies include The Home Depot, Lowe’s Companies, Kohl’s, Williams-Sonoma, and Mohawk Industries. These firms are working hard to expand their businesses through strategic acquisitions and network expansion.

Leroy Merlin Studio

Leroy Merlin Studio offers a range of services, including a complete renovation of a studio. Their team of experts is available to help customers design their renovations and find the best products. Their expertise is based on the needs of each client and their lifestyle. They also offer free e-learning courses to teach people how to renovate their homes themselves.

Leroy Merlin Studio has a number of different ways to contact customer service, including through their Facebook page and Twitter account. They also have an application that allows customers to locate their nearest store. The company has also expanded its presence in the digital world by launching an online marketplace with a careful selection of specialized sellers. This new channel allows them to offer a broader range of products and services. They have a large customer base and are well-known in Europe. Leroy Merlin is currently one of the largest home improvement retailers in the world.

Woodbridge Home Solutions

Founded in 1989, Woodbridge Home Solutions offers a range of energy-efficient windows and doors, siding, kitchen cabinet refacing, and tub to shower conversions. Located in Dallas, Texas, the company serves homeowners throughout the state and South Central US. Private equity’s interest in the industry continues to grow with this acquisition, bringing Woodbridge into the Renovo portfolio alongside the likes of Dreamstyle Remodeling, Remodel USA, and Alure Home Improvements.

The company is a one-stop-shop for homeowners looking to improve their property’s value and curb appeal. Licensed and insured installation specialists provide high-quality replacement windows, patio doors, vinyl siding, and more. They also offer quick turnaround on bath and kitchen remodels. Woodbridge also specializes in specialty window types such as transoms and sidelites, which frame an entrance door and illuminate the entryway without compromising privacy and security. They are available in a variety of styles and designs, making them the perfect addition to any home. *Message and data rates may apply. Consent to receive texts is required. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Great Day Improvements

Great Day Improvements offers a wide range of renovation services, including sunrooms, Florida rooms, screen rooms, porch enclosures, patio doors, replacement windows and more. The company also installs shingle roofs, siding, and gutter systems for home improvements.

Headquartered in Macedonia, Ohio, Great Day Improvements is a vertically integrated direct-to-consumer provider of premium home improvement products. Its brand portfolio includes Patio Enclosures, Champion Windows and Home Exteriors, Universal Windows Direct, Stanek Windows, Apex Energy Solutions, Hartshorn Custom Contracting, Your Home Improvement Company, K-Designers, and The Bath Authority.

In 2024, the company boosted its offerings by acquiring Hpawindows and Your Home Improvement Company. Both companies have been serving homeowners in the Northern US for more than two decades, specializing in windows, doors, roofing, and bathroom remodeling services. Their customer-first approach and commitment to excellence, expertise, responsibility, and value set them apart from other home improvement companies. In addition, the company’s recognition on industry lists, such as Remodeling Magazine’s 550 and Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 List, further enhances its brand reputation.

HUD home improvement loans can be a great way to save money on essential upgrades. These government-backed loans can be easier to qualify for than traditional mortgages.

The best home improvement loans for you will depend on your credit score and the type of renovation you need. Read more about hud home improvement loans at NerdWallet.

203(k) Loans

If you want to purchase a home in need of significant renovations, consider using a 203(k) loan. These loans bundle the cost of a mortgage with the costs of improvements, and you only have to put down as little as 3.5% down. This allows you to make renovations that aren’t possible with a regular rehab loan, and it also means that your loan payments will be based on the total value of the property once the work is completed.

FHA 203(k) loans are available for both new construction and existing properties. They offer a more flexible mortgage with less red tape than standard loan programs. The 203(k) program is designed to finance the repair and renovation of single-family homes, including structural repairs such as foundations or roofs, room additions, modernization of kitchens and bathrooms, and projects that increase energy efficiency and climate resilience.

There are two 203(k) loan options: the standard 203(k) and the limited 203(k). The limited product caters to minor remodeling and non-structural repairs, with a timeline for completion that’s typically less than 6 months, and no consultant requirement. The standard 203(k) loan is designed for more extensive renovations, and requires the services of an FHA-approved consultant to oversee project planning, contractor selection, and draw inspections.

The FHA has recently made several updates to the 203(k) program, which are expected to enhance its effectiveness and flexibility. These include: increasing the maximum allowable renovation cost on the limited product; adding a contingency reserve to both products, allowing for up to 20% of total project costs to be financed; and increasing the allowable fees that consultants can levy on homeowners – a first update to these fees since 1995.

For more information about these updates, talk to your trusted mortgage professional. They’ll be able to help you find the right option for your home improvement needs, and give you tips on how best to approach the 203(k) process.

Title I Loans

HUD offers a number of home improvement programs. These include Title 1 loans, streamlined 203(k) loans and 203(k) refinances. Each type of loan can cover different types of renovation projects. For example, Title 1 loans can cover exterior painting and roof repairs. Unlike 203(k) loans, these loans don’t require a minimum loan amount and they can be used for single-family homes.

In order to qualify for a Title I loan, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. These include a good credit history and the ability to repay the loan on time. In addition, you’ll need to provide the lender with proof of income and employment. You’ll also need to have a debt-to-income ratio below 45%.

To apply for a Title I loan, you’ll want to start by searching the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) list of approved lenders. You can find a lender in your area by entering your zip code into the search tool on the HUD website. Once you’ve found a lender, you’ll need to submit a complete application. You’ll need to provide the lender with an itemized list of the work that you plan to do to your property, as well as a description of any related expenses such as engineering or architectural fees, title, permit and appraisal fees.

A Title I home improvement loan is a great option for homeowners who are looking to make major repairs or upgrades but don’t have enough equity in their home to use a mortgage or home equity line of credit. You can use the loan for a variety of repairs and renovations, including adding a new bathroom or kitchen, installing an accessible shower or a stairlift, adding a porch or deck and making energy-efficient upgrades. You can even use the money to repair a sagging foundation or replace an old roof. In some cases, you may be able to borrow up to $25,000 for your renovation project.

If you are thinking about doing home improvements, you should consider hiring a licensed contractor. They should have extensive experience and references from past projects. They should also be bonded and insured.

Large-scale projects like kitchen remodels, room additions and swimming pools often require a general contractor. They have networks of vendors with better pricing than you would get at a local hardware store and they know how to navigate the permit process.

Do Your Research

It is essential to know what you want done before selecting a contractor. This will help to eliminate unscrupulous contractors who may try to convince you to have extra work done or over-charge you for materials. Write a list of all the work that you want to be done, and be as specific as possible. This will allow you to easily compare estimates from different contractors and make a well-informed decision.

A good general contractor will be able to work with you to ensure that the specifications of your project are met. They will also be familiar with local building codes and regulations.

Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations, and check out the online reviews of the home improvement contractors you are considering. It is important to find out if the contractor you choose has workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. This will protect you if an employee is injured on the job or damage occurs to your property.

Get Referrals

Referral services are one of the best ways for contractors to get new business. They typically pay a fee to the contractor for each lead they deliver, often based on per month or geographic region.

Asking previous clients for referrals is one of the most effective ways to generate new connections, and the vast majority of people trust friend recommendations – especially when it comes to home improvement projects. Keeping projects on budget and schedule, as well as maintaining professional communication with clients during and after the project is also essential in generating good client feedback.

A renovation company can further promote their reputation and encourage positive reviews through their website or social media channels. Sharing practical tips and ideas on social media, as well as offering contests for customers who make referrals can also help a renovation business stand out from competitors. Additionally, investing in equipment like the RB4000 raisable, drivable container and CR8400 compact mobile crane can streamline work on jobsites and keep them cleaner and safer, which are all factors homeowners notice and appreciate.

Check Their Insurance

Home improvement contractors must have a license to perform work on your home and liability insurance to protect you in the event of property damage. You should request estimates from several different contractors to compare them apples-to-apples. If an estimate seems significantly lower than others, it could be a sign of inaccurate or incomplete work.

Make sure the contract is clear about the scope of the work and includes a detailed timeline for completion, payment schedule, and other important information. You should also ask how the contractor will handle “change-orders,” which are requests for additional work that didn’t originally appear in the bid.

A good home improvement contractor will be able to provide an accurate timeline for the project and will be willing to adjust it accordingly as the project progresses. They should also be able to communicate clearly with you and your insurance adjuster. If you find that a contractor isn’t responsive, it may be time to move on.

Check Their Credentials

It is important to do your homework and verify the contractor’s credentials and licenses. This will ensure a smooth project and help protect you from scams and frauds.

A reputable contractor will be licensed and insured, and will have references from previous clients to provide proof of their quality of work and professionalism. They will also be able to provide you with a detailed contract that includes a project timeline and payment schedule. They will also be able to tell you where your payments will go and make sure they are kept in an escrow account until the job is substantially complete.

A good contractor will always be aware of local and industry codes, and will obtain all necessary permits for your renovation project. They will understand OSHA regulations and will maintain a safe work environment, which helps prevent accidents and damages to your property. In addition, a good contractor will know how to save you money on materials and supplies through wholesale pricing or vendor accounts.

We remodel our homes for a variety of reasons. It might be an epiphany that avocado green and harvest gold are no longer in style or a realization that we don’t have enough storage space for all of our stuff.

If you are considering remodeling your home, it’s important to choose a contractor carefully. Here are some tips to help you do so.

Design-Build Firms

Homeowners have the option of working with a design-build firm that can handle both the architecture and construction phases of their home remodel. This streamlined process is often more cost efficient than working with a designer and general contractor separately.

Design-build firms should be held accountable for their timelines and budgets, says Mickley. He explains that when changes are made to the original scope of work, it can cause back and forth between architects and general contractors—which can delay the project for weeks. With a design-build firm, however, those revisions will be evaluated in real-time and costs will be updated accordingly.

Tambi Kat, principal of a New York City-based design-build company called Bolster, emphasizes the importance of transparent pricing, financial guarantees, and an efficient design-build process. His team is dedicated to eliminating the risks associated with major home renovations, ensuring clients pay no unexpected costs and projects are completed two weeks early on average. For example, Bolster recently renovated a Manhattan brownstone to include a contemporary kitchen and a new open floor plan.

General Contractors

Licensed general contractors (GCs) are the lead professionals on major construction and remodeling projects. They manage teams of subcontractors that handle the specialized aspects of each project and secure all permits.

GCs may take on a fixed price project or work under a cost-plus contract. Typically, they collect quotes from several qualified specialized subcontractors and add their own overhead costs to submit a quote. They then perform the work for that amount, and any additional savings become additional profit for the GC.

Reputable GCs have solid relationships with vendors and subcontractors and can negotiate a better price for materials and labor. They provide quality workmanship that exceeds clients’ expectations and respect their homes and belongings by outlines plans for maintaining cleanliness and minimizing disruptions throughout the renovation process.

Full-Service Remodelers

A full service remodeler employs a team of professionals dedicated to your project until it’s finished. This approach not only ensures that your renovation is done right the first time, but it also speeds up completion times because the team doesn’t have to wait for a subcontractor to finish their work.

Another benefit of working with a full-service firm is that they’re familiar with local zoning laws and permits. This means that they can help you avoid costly mistakes that could delay your renovation or result in an expensive permit fine.

If you’re looking for a home remodeler that’s familiar with your neighborhood, share your project details with us now. We’ll match you with highly-rated local pros and provide quotes so you can compare.

What to Look for in a Remodeling Contractor

The right remodeling contractor will work with you to make sure that the scope of your project, timeline, and payment schedule are all clearly defined. They should also provide a detailed cost estimate that includes any unanticipated occurrences that might affect the budget.

Be sure to ask about their company’s experience and references. A reputable contractor will be happy to share testimonials and a portfolio of previous projects. Look for photos of completed rooms that include close-ups as well as a wide view of each space.

You should also discuss the company’s warranty. Find out what the length of the warranty is and whether it covers labor as well as materials. Also, find out if they can offer a fixed-price contract. This ensures that you’ll know exactly what the project costs are before it begins. If a home remodeler is reluctant to discuss these details, it might be time to consider other options.