What to do when hiring a contractor

Because most individuals lack the know-how to repair the foundations of their home, they must hire a contractor to do the job for them, which will be expensive as well as an inconvenience.

Depending on the amount of damage to the foundation, workmen could be in your home for several days or even weeks. During this time, you, your spouse or someone you trust will also have to be in the home to provide supervision as well as for security purposes.

After you contact a contractor, the first thing he or she should do, is visit your home and examine the extent of damage to your foundations. The estimate they present you should be based on their inspection. Most contractors do not charge for estimates. You should acquire at least three estimates, do not rely only on a single estimate. In addition, do not assume that the lowest estimate is the best. Instead, you want to go with the contractor who uses and provides you with the best materials, and overall quality.

However, before you exchange any money with a contractor, you need to request and verify the references for that contractor, as well as any previous work history. When you verify references, you must crosscheck them if possible by visiting the homes and inspecting the quality of work done by the contractor. You also, will need to contact the Better Business Bureau to see if they have had any complaints filed against the contractor by any of his or her previous customers.

In addition to all of the above, you should also verify that the contractor has the proper licenses or certifications required. Many municipalities require all contractors to be licensed if a home repair or renovation exceeds $30,000.

You must also verify that the contractor has the proper insurance. Depending on your state laws, you may be liable if someone you hire to work at your home injures himself or someone else, or damages property. The three insurances you should check for are:

(i) Workman's Compensation Insurance---this insurance pays worker, who are injured on your property.

(ii) Automobile Insurance---protects you if your contractor damages a vehicle parked on your property.

(iii) The General Liability Insurance---If your contractor or laborers damage your property this would compensate you for the damages.

It is strongly recommended not to pay the entire amount of the repair to the contractor before the repairs have been made. Most contractors will begin work with little of the total amount paid upfront and will claim the remainder of the amount once the job is been completed. However, once the job is completed, if you do not pay the contractor depending on the laws of your state the contractor may have the right to place a lien on your property.

Finally, if the cracks in your foundation are small and minor, then perhaps you may be able to make the necessary repairs yourself. There are several easy to follow do-it-yourself books that can give you insight into such a project and also protect you from being taken advantage.

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