All contract needs to fully define all aspects of what homeowner and contractor have agreed to. The level of detail that should be included in a contract will vary with the size and complexity of the project. For a new home building or renovation project, the contract should include details of the design, material and product specifications, the project schedule, costs, and payment arrangements. For more simple home repair jobs, less detail may be needed, but it should still provide a clear warranty on the work – specifically what is covered and for how long.  Here are some simple things all contracts should include:

-Name of contractor, business address, phone number and license number

-A clear description of work the contractor is responsible for doing

-If any work the homeowner or other contractor is responsible for doing

-Who is responsible for obtaining necessary building permits and inspections

-Start and completion dates

-Who will be supplying materials

-A clear payment schedule

-Signatures

A detailed written contract between homeowner and contractor is essential, whether you are doing a simple home repair or major renovation. If you get involved in a handshake “cash deal without a written contract, problems caused by mis-communication are more likely to occur making issues much harder to resolve.

To see what the Connecticut Department of consumer protection has to say about contracts, click here

Kitchen remodels are not all created equal and it’s important to get a contractor that is a good fit for your project. One person’s idea of a kitchen remodel may consist of updates like new cabinet hardware, a tile back splash, new counter tops, new sink, and fixtures. Another persons remodel may consist of moving walls to open up the room, relocating fixtures and appliances, installing custom cabinetry, moldings, flooring, exotic stone counter tops and fixtures. Clearly, the level of complexity should always be the main factor to keep in mind when looking for a contractor to bring your ideas to life. Ask prospects what kind of work they have done in the past and ask if they have pictures from previous projects. Good contractors build relationships with their customers and often times could even arrange for you to see previous completed jobs. Satisfied customers are often eager to show off a job well done by their contractor.

A good fit of contractor to remodel is important for two reasons. One, I find that contractors who consistently do similar type projects always turn out out a better product. Two, you will get better pricing. You don’t need a high end contractor to put new knobs on your cabinet doors and painting your ceiling. High end contractors get high end money for high end work and as well they should.

If your project is fairly straightforward then go with a contractor that is experienced in doing straightforward type remodels. If your project is complex and requires extensive planning, coordination of tradesmen and material orders, then ONLY go with a contractor who has experience, pictures of projects that are equivalent to the caliber of your remodel.