What are the questions I should ask potential contractors?

Timing and money are the most common questions a home improvement contractor hears, but during an interview with a homeowner when homeowners should be asking about credentials and verifying business practices what is often heard is, “When can you start? When will it be finished? How much will it cost?"

These simply aren't enough. Yes, timing may be "everything" in comedy, but that certainly isn't the case when it comes to remodeling. If you are going to have a successful remodeling project, you need to learn the right questions to ask and how to ask them.

Common  queries are:

When can you start?

When will you be finished?

What time will you knock on my door each morning?

What time will you quit for the day?

Are you going to work everyday?

Can you finish before (insert any major holiday or significant family event)?

How much will it cost per square foot?

Unfortunately, these are not the type of questions that are going to tell you much about a particular contractor.

While a reasonable timetable and budget is important, it shouldn't be the primary focus of an interview or a job. Homeowners should also focus on trust and quality.

Start by asking questions about a company's business practices and experience in a similar type of project. If you decide you want to hire a particular remodeling contractor, then you can discuss when he or she can start, what time he or she can knock on your door each morning and when you will have your home to yourselves again.

Here are some questions we recommend you ask before signing a remodeling contract:

• How long have you been in business?
• Who will be assigned as project supervisor for the job?
• Who will be working on the project? Are they employees or subcontractors?
• Does your company carry workers compensation and liability insurance? (Always verify this information by calling the agency. A copy of an insurance certificate does not let you know if the policy is still current. Even if the certificate has an expiration date. you cannot tell if the insurance has been canceled by either party. Licensing is required in California; also ask if the contractor is licensed and call to verify compliance with the law Check with your local or state government agencies (CSLB.org)
• What is your approach to a project such as this?
• How many projects like mine have you completed?
• May I have a list of reference from those projects?
• May I have a list of business referrals or suppliers?
• What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
• Are you a member of a national trade association?

It's also important to realize that sometimes it's not the answers you get that are significant, but what you don't get. Asking the right questions is not enough. You need to pay attention to your instincts and to what information is missing.

Unlike your accountant or stockbroker, your remodeler will be a part of your daily life and available for some on-the-job education. He or she will be privy to your personal life, more so than your doctor or lawyer. Your contractor will know how you look early in the morning and how well behaved your dog is. It makes sense that you should take some time to carefully select this person and make sure that it is someone to whom you can ask questions. 

Remodeling can be a fun experience. You get to create your dream room or home and learn a little about design and building along the way. All you need to do is ask questions.

Do I need to hire an architect?

This depends on your needs and the size complexity of your intended remodeling project, there are several different options for you to explore before finalizing your plans. Attempt to define which of the following alternatives represents the best approach for your project:

The General Contractor

Many home improvements may not require professional design services and can be handled by an experienced contractor. Again, be sure to deal with a professional. Even small jobs need careful planning, as their successful completion is important to you.

The Architect

Major remodeling projects require construction drawings to define contracts and permits procurement. If your professional remodeler does not provide design services, you can use a professionally trained architect. It is best to work with an architect experienced in remodeling, he or she will be more sensitive to the special challenges that remodeling represents.

What do I do if mold is uncovered during remodeling?

There has been much media attention about the health effects of mold in the last decade. , and while mold can cause some health problems, many health officials feel that media reports have blown things out of proportion. In the Spring of 2004, the

released the results of a report on the health effects of mold, as reviewed by a team of experts. In their work, they reviewed a large number of studies looking for evidence of the connection between mold exposure and health problems. The conclusion, based on an far-reaching review of medical research, was that there is strong evidence linking mold exposure to asthma and allergy attacks. Also, there are some well- known health effects linked to mold and persons with special sensitivities or with occupational exposures. Beyond this, it was concluded that there is little firm evidence linking mold and severe health effects that are sometimes blamed on mold exposure. The conclusion of this review is that, while moldy buildings are not good places to live, it is unlikely that severe illness will result from mold exposure.

If you have uncovered mold in your home during a remodel, it may be necessary to get additional professional help from a mold remediation specialist if it is a large problem (covering more than about ten square feet). Ask your contractor for assistance with solutions or finding a mold remediation specialist.

Does every remodeling job need a permit?

Building codes have been established by most cities, towns and countries. They vary considerably from one jurisdiction to another. A building permit generally is required whenever structural work is involved or when the basic living area of the home is to be changed. A professional who works in your city or town every day will know to local requirements.