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Step 1: Select A Contractor
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Ask
family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers to recommend a contractor.
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Contact local trade organization such as the Tri-County National
Association of the Remodeling Industry (330) 920-1379 or Home Builders
Association of Portage & Summit Counties at (330) 869-6800.
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To
find out if other consumers have filed complaints against a
contractor, call the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at (800) 282-0515,
visit the Better Business Bureau’s website at
www.bbb.org or contact our
office.
Step 2:
Get Estimates for the Work
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Get
three (3) written estimates from contractors.
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The
estimates should have a complete description of the work to be done,
materials to be used, start and completion date, and costs.
Step 3:
Before You Sign the Contract
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Contractor’s name, address, and telephone number should be on the
contract.
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A
detailed list of all materials including color, model, size, brand
name, and product.
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What the contractor will and will not do with costs.
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A
provision requiring written approval for any changes.
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Any
oral statements or promises added to the contract must be in writing.
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Agree to start and completion dates.
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When you are solicited at your home, the contract is to include a
3-day cancellation notice and the procedures you are to follow should
you decide to cancel with them.
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Make a minimal down payment; consider paying with credit card because
if you experience a problem you can dispute the payment with your
credit card company.
Step 4:
Before You Make the Final Payment
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Get
copies of your written warranties for materials and workmanship.
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Proof that all subcontractors and suppliers for the job have been
paid.
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All
work agreed upon has been completed.
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The
job site has been cleaned up of excess materials, tools, and
equipment.
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