Choosing a Registered Builder or Remodelor
By Nancy Miller
When considering building a new home or remodeling an existing home, it’ s critical to select the right individual or company for your individual project. It is a decision that will help determine the quality and cost of your remodel or new construction. The Home Builders Association of Louisville( HBAL) has Registered Remodelor and Registered Builder members who:
• Are informed about new products.
• Are linked to a network of industry professionals on the local, state and national level.
• Have a commitment to continuing education.
• Have the ability to address special building issues / techniques.
• Have access to a conciliation process should problems arise that cannot be easily resolved.
• Have experience in the home or commercial construction profession for a specified period of time.
• Have demonstrated financial and on-site responsibilities.
• Are a full-time professional who derives his or her principal income from construction, remodeling or related real estate activities.
• Have submitted the names of previous customers as references
• Have Registered Remodelor or Builder sponsors with personal knowledge of their remodeling / construction activities and business integrity.
• Must have acceptable credit history.
• Appear before a committee for a personal interview.
• Must agree to take part in continuing education.
• Must agree to abide by the Code of Ethics of the HBAL.
Checklist for Hiring a Registered Builder or Registered Remodelor
It’ s also important that you become familiar with the business of a prospective remodeler or builder and that his or her experience relates to your individual project. You might find it helpful to use this checklist when choosing a Registered Remodelor or Builder member of the Home Builders Association of Louisville.
q Check to be sure that you’ re talking to a Registered Remodelor or Builder.
q Check to be sure the remodeler or builder has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.
q Ask how long they have been in the remodeling or building business. You want to be sure they’ ll be around after the project is complete to service warranties and to address issues that could develop. It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business.
q Check with the Better Business Bureau to learn of any complaints.
q Inquire whether the remodeler or builder has sufficient workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. If not, you may be liable for any construction- or remodeling-related accidents on your premises. It’ s a good idea to ask for proof of insurance.
q Check references.
q Check for quality of workmanship and materials of previous projects.
q Be sure you are able to easily communicate with the person.
q Ask for a complete and clearly written contract. Review it carefully.
q Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids. If the remodeler or builder is unable to pay for materials and labor as the project proceeds, there could be potential problems.
q Look for these logos:
q Visit hbal. com for lists of Registered Remodelors and Builders.
12 The Tour of Remodeled Homes