Business Experience and Management

Does the remodeler:

• Maintain a permanent mailing address, e-mail address, published personal phone number, fax number, and a cell phone, pager, or voice-messaging system? You will want to be able to reach the remodeler quickly and easily, especially at critical times.
• Carry insurance that protects you from claims arising from property damage or jobsite injuries?
• Ask for a copy of the remodeler's insurance certificates so you can be sure you will not be liable in these situations for property damage or jobsite-related injuries.
• Ask the remodeler how much the project will add to your home's value and obtain the necessary additional insurance.
• Have an established presence in the community?
• How long has the company been in business under this name? Longevity suggests financial stability.
• Does the remodeler maintain solid relationships with experienced independent trade contractors such as plumbers and electricians and work with them as a team to keep your job running smoothly?
• Possess a trustworthy reputation among customers, peers, local officials, and people involved in all aspects of the industry?
• Does the remodeler have a track record of successful projects similar to one you are planning?
• Ask for a list of building materials suppliers and call them to see if the remodeler has an account or pays for materials on delivery. Most suppliers are willing to extend credit to financially sound companies.
• Actively participate in a trade organization such as the Remodelors Council of the National Association of Home Builders? This and similar organizations help to keep their members informed about new products, construction techniques, business practices, and industry issues. Participation demonstrates a remodeler's commitment to professionalism and the remodeling industry.
• Has the remodeler earned any professional designations? Through certification programs, these organizations confer designations such as Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), Certified Bath Designer (SBD), or Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) to those who meet the requirements.
• How long has the remodeler you are considering been a member of these associations?