HOW TO CHOOSE A REPUTABLE BUILDER

• Ask for an insurance certificate to verify current workers’ compensation and general liability insurance.

• Ask for references.  Talk with others who have had work done by the contractor about his capabilities and quality of workmanship.

• Ask to see the contractor’s work.  Check for yourself the quality of work.

• Make sure the contractor has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.

• Incorporate any warranties, guarantees or other promises in your written contract.  Always insist on a written contract and written change orders.

• Be specific about starting and completion dates.  Some delays are unavoidable and beyond the contractor’s control.

• Beware of an unusually low bid or low advertised price. If a contractor cannot pay for labor, materials and overhead, you are both in trouble.

• Select a contractor you are comfortable with – one who understands your tastes and needs and with whom you can communicate easily.

• Take you time.  Most problems occur when consumers fail to investigate contractors carefully before hiring them.

• After July 1, 2009, ask them to provide their Registration Number and verify thru the PA Attorney General's website (www.attorneygeneral.gov/hicsearch/) that they are indeed registered.

Consumers reminded to ask home improvement contractors for state registration number!

The Lawrence County Builders Association reminds homeowners to ask all home improvement contractors (including anyone who works in, on or around your home) for their state registration number any time they get a quote for any of the following – construction, replacement, installation or improvement of driveways, swimming pools, pool houses, porches, garages, roofs, siding, insulation, solar energy systems, security systems, flooring, patios, fences, gazebos, sheds, landscaping, painting, doors, windows and waterproofing.    

A new law requiring all home improvement contractors in Pennsylvania to register with the state Attorney General’s Office went into effect July 1, 2009.  

Consumers are encouraged to report any unregistered home improvement contractors that they come in contact with. The e-mail address for consumers to report unregistered home improvement contractors is hic@attorneygeneral.gov. The Attorney General’s Office also can be reached by phone at 800-441-2555.

Contractor registration is a valuable new tool for reducing home improvement fraud.  A consumer’s best protection, however, continues to be complete and thorough research of a contractor and of their home improvement project before signing any contract.

The LCBA advises that a good first step for finding a reputable contractor is for homeowners to call their local homebuilders association (724-658-4432) for a list of its members or check out the LCBA website – www.lawrencecountybuilders.com. The fact that a contractor is a member of a trade association that stresses ongoing professional development, like the LCBA, increases a homeowner’s chances of finding a capable and trustworthy builder.