Remodeling or renovating your home is an exciting yet sometimes stressful experience. It is your chance to bring new life to your space and add value to your property. Embarking on a home improvement project is a big decision and one that can be further complicated if you need to hire someone to complete the work.
Finding the right contractor can be a challenge. You are counting on them to care for and improve your home. Furthermore, you are trusting them to work efficiently and effectively so you and your family can return to your lives without interruption. It is essential to choose a contracting team that can complete the project on time and within budget.
MALPRACTICE CASES ARE NOT LIMITED TO DOCTORS & LAWYERS
While cases against medical providers are certainly most associated with malpractice, professional malpractice cases can extend to any vocation. When a builder or contractor has not completed the work agreed upon, has damaged a home or building, or compromised its safety, the owner may have grounds to file a malpractice suit. However, steps can be taken at the beginning of the home building or remodeling process to vet contractors properly.
KNOW WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE
Whether you are building a new home, creating an addition, or remodeling existing spaces, it is essential to know what your project will entail. This includes projected cost, completion time, and materials needed. While you certainly do not have to have top-to-bottom knowledge on what will go into your project, having an understanding of the time, labor, and costs involved will help you better identify a contractor to fit your needs.
HAVE THEY OBTAINED THE APPROPRIATE PERMITS?
Filing for building permits not only ensures your project complies with local zoning, construction, and land use codes — it holds your contractor or builder to a certain standard of safety and quality. Starting a project without the appropriate permits can result in fines for the homeowner. If your contractor hesitates to file for the appropriate permits, it may be a red flag — securing permits is part of their job and the bidding process.
ARE THEY LICENSED, BONDED, AND INSURED?
While not every trade requires licensure, it is important to work with contractors who are bonded or insured. When contractors invest in contractor’s insurance or a contractor’s bond, it ensures you are protected in the event of damage to your property, failure to complete a job, or other factors. Before you hire a contractor, verify if they are required to have a license, and ask for proof of insurance or bonds.
HOW LONG HAVE THEY BEEN IN BUSINESS?
When it comes to project management, budgeting, and remodeling, experience matters! Working with a contractor who has an established reputation, portfolio, and repertoire is important. With time comes an enhanced ability to manage budgets, deadlines, and obstacles that arise.
WHERE DID THE REFERRAL COME FROM?
Did your neighbor refer you to a particular contractor? Alternatively, did you find them through internet research? If you received a word-of-mouth recommendation, it is important to clarify what the referrer hired the contractor for. Many contractors may be able to handle a wide range of project types, but it is important to pay attention to what their specialties or special interests are.
WHAT SUPPLIERS DO THEY WORK WITH?
The lumber yards, wholesale supply houses, and manufacturers your contractor works with can give you insight into the quality of their work. When contractors use the best materials and have good relationships with their suppliers, it is a testament to the quality of their work and service they provide to their customers.
WHAT ARE GROUNDS TO FILE A PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE SUIT?
One of the most common factors in filing a malpractice suit against a contractor is a failure to fulfill a contract. Having a written agreement between you and your contractor provides you with expectations for your project and an outline of services rendered. When a project is not completed, results in injury or economic loss, or creates liabilities, it may give you grounds to file a malpractice suit.
WE PROVIDE SOLUTIONS YOU DESERVE
Chiariello & Chiariello is based in Glen Cove, NY, and serves clients across Long Island, New York City, and surrounding areas. We offer free consultations and case evaluations to new clients. Our firm has extensive experience in personal injury, professional and legal malpractice cases. If you would like to explore your options and have us review your case, please contact us today at (516) 360-2869.
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