Get the Notebooks Out: Homeowners Need to Do Homework Before Considering Home Remodel

WOODBURY, N.J. - May 2, 2013 - PRLog -- As spring moves forth in May, many homeowners can take advantage of sprucing up their home during “National Home Remodeling Month.”  Before taking a hammer to an outdated kitchen or ripping off the last piece of siding that was damaged by a furious wind storm, homeowners need to do their homework first in order to bask in the glow of a successful remodeling project.  

There are thousands of contractors that claim to be certified and experienced but can’t figure out how to budget a project or offer homeowners quality materials and workmanship.  Jay Cipriani, owner of Cipriani Remodeling Solutions, advises homeowners to be aware of something that may appear to be a good thing. “Most of these people have no idea how to run a remodeling company or leave the homeowner with a good experience, “ Jay Cipriani says.  Cipriani is one of South New Jersey’s largest home remodeling companies.

“They (contractors) don’t know the things that legally need to be in a home improvement contract to protect a homeowner.  That means if there is a problem during or after a job, homeowners are left with little resource, “Cipriani added.

According to Cipriani, homeowners should do a lot of research before hiring someone for a remodeling project and shouldn’t just pick a name out of the phone book.  He offers the following questions a homeowner should ask when deciding on a contractor:

Does the contractor have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks, suppliers and building officials? Ask the contractor to supply the names and contact information for these people and then do a reference check.  

Is the contractor a member in good standing of a professional trade association?

How long has he been in business?  Is the contractor licensed or registered, if required in your area?

Check references.  It’s important that you talk with people who have hired the remodeler to do jobs similar to yours and ask if they would hire the contractor again.

Have you seen the contractor’s work both completed and in progress?  Check for quality of workmanship and materials.

Have you called the local Better Business Bureau or Consumer Affairs Office?  They can alert you to any outstanding complaints.

Does the contractor have proof of workers’ compensation and general liability insurance?  If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises or damage to your property.

Price drives the selection.  If you like a contractor and are confident with his work, but he came in with a bid that’s beyond your price, ask what can be scaled down to meet your budget.

Are you able to communicate easily with the contractor?  Misunderstandings during the course of a project can lead to cost overruns and delays.

Do you feel comfortable with the contractor?  Remember, you will be in close contact with him and will share your house with his crew until the project is completed.

Will the contractor provide you with a complete and clearly written contract as required by law?

Ask what type of warranty is offered.  Most remodelers offer some sort of warranty in writing.

About Cipriani Remodeling Solutions: Cipriani Remodeling Solutions is a full service professional remodeling firm specializing in building unique additions, kitchens and baths. For over 30 years, the company has served homeowners in Southern New Jersey, Southeastern Pennsylvania and Northern Delaware. Jay Cipriani has been named a "Business Person of the Year" by the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 856-853-8398 or visithttp://www.CiprianiRemodelingSolutions.com.