Home Remodeling Questions

We Answer "Yes!" to These Remodeling Questions

Are you licensed?

Most states insist that home remodeling contractors and sub-contractors be licensed. You should be sure that your Tucson remodeler is properly licensed. How? Ask the contractor to prove that they are licensed by showing you their actual license or by presenting a copy of it to you. Being licensed is the law, and if a remodeling services provider cannot show you his or her valid state license, DO NOT HIRE THEM! Why? Well, would you go to a doctor, dentist, or real estate agent who wasn't licensed by the state when the law required them to be licensed? Of course you wouldn't! If you deal with an unlicensed remodeling contractor, you are exposing yourself and your home to unnecessary risks. If a remodeler fails to get properly licensed when the law requires it, can you really trust that they will complete your project honestly and professionally?

Do you carry general liability insurance?

Yes, we do. Your remodeler should carry general liability insurance. Be sure that they do before you hire them! General liability insurance protects you and your property in the event of damage caused by the contractor and/or their employees. The insurance company will take care of replacement and repair cost for any damages that might occur in the course of the remodeling job (accidents do you happen). You should always make the contractor prove that they are insured by showing you a certificate of insurance or a copy thereof.

Do you carry workers' compensation insurance?

Yes, we do. If a worker is injured while on your property, the contractor's workers' compensation insurance will protect you from any potential liability. Accidents do happen, but you don't want to be held responsible for them when they do. If a remodeler doesn't carry workers' compensation coverage, you could be held liable for any injuries suffered by workers on your job site. You really don't want to be paying someone else's medical bills simply because an unscrupulous contractor claimed that he had workers' compensation insurance when in fact he didn't. Bottom line: Don't take unnecessary risks. Only deal with a fully insured remodeler!

Are you a member of NARI or NAHB?

NARI is short for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, and NAHB is an acronym for the National Association of Home Builders. You would do well to give NARI or NAHB contractors preferential treatment when bidding for your job. Why? Both organizations attract professional remodelers who are interested in bettering their industry and exposing the practices of unprofessional contractors. To become a member of either of these organizations, the contractor's references and background are thoroughly screened and investigated. NAHB and NARI members stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry, and therefore, are more knowledgeable about best practices in the remodeling industry.

Will you pull all the required building permits?

We always pull all required building permits. Because you want your project "done to code," you should always ensure that the remodeler "pulls" all the required permits for your local area. This is very important! Many homeowner insurance policies require that such permits be accessed on any major remodeling project in order to keep your home properly insured. Sadly, not all remodeling companies will take the extra steps to access the required permits. Some contractors don't pull the permits because it takes time and "is a hassle" to deal with inspectors. Some remodelers may even ask you to go get the permits for them! This is a big "red flag warning" that they are probably not able to pull the permit themselves because they are unlicensed or, at the very least, not licensed to do the specific work you require. Just remember: a reputable remodeling service provider will pull every permit required, whereas unlicensed contractors are often not able to do so.

Will you keep my house as clean and uncluttered as possible?

We always do our best in this regard. Comprehensive home repairs and improvements, such as those done during a home remodeling construction project, can be dirty work (but someone's got to do it)! Dust, sand, and other building materials can get airborne and spread everywhere. While it's nearly impossible for remodelers to eliminate all dust or debris, you do want them to make an honest effort to keep the mess contained. At minimum, you should expect them to place sheets over furniture or otherwise protect your valuable belongings whenever possible. The contractor definitely needs to clean up after construction takes place, as well as to remove all debris to a trash container at the end of each work day.

Will you show me written references?

Of course! A good contractor will be happy to provide you with references and testimonials. You should only choose well-established remodelers who can give you multiple references from the last six to twelve months. You may also want to request an opportunity to speak with the person who wrote the referral. A good remodeling services provider will actually encourage such contact. If they don't, odds are they've got something to hide.

Do you guarantee your work?

Sure we do! Any remodeler in Tucson who doesn't guarantee their work for at least one year from the date of completion is someone you need to avoid. You should also request warranties of the materials the remodeler has used, where applicable. If some lighting fixtures fail, for example, that is probably not the fault of the remodeler. You should have the option of getting that fixture replaced, and if you have the warranty, you can get it done as soon as possible.