Homowners with the time and competence can save some money on home repairs by doing them themselves. However, tasks should be chosen carefully. It’s tempting to try to economize by buying materials, but this rarely pans out. Contractors mark up the prices of their materials, but they can usually buy them cheaper than the homeowner can. They also find the materials, select them, have them delivered, inspect the quality and pay for them. Painting, on the other hand, is often a good choice. So is cleanup.
Compare Bids and Check References
When negotiating rounds are complete, bids that are radically high or low should be discarded. Using the bids that are fairly close, the most competent contractor should be chosen. Also be sure to check the contractor’s references. If references check out, call the local consumer affairs office to confirm the contractor’s license and check on any complaints filed against him. Touch base with the Better Business Bureau as well. Before any work is done, have the contractor’s insurer provide a certificate of liability and workmen’s compensation insurance coverage.
Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate
Now it’s time to negotiate the contract. Good contracts make for successful projects; never turn over any money until the contract is signed. Get everything in writing, and include as much detail as possible. Not just the color of paint, but the brand, if it’s to be sprayed or brushed, and how many coats. Identify manufacturers, model numbers, grades, etc. Define the contractor’s responsibilities at each step of the project.
