Know what you want done
Have a plan, research alternatives, and establish a budget and schedule that work for you.
Know your contractor
Here are some handy tips on hiring a contractor:
- Start by getting at least three estimates When you get those estimates, no matter how major or minor the work, don't be too quick to jump at the lowest bid. Do some homework (see next point).
- That's why you should call at least three references. Ask about quality, clean-up, how changes were handled, were calls returned, and was the job was completed on time and on budget. If not, find out why.
- Make sure the contractor is licensed. In North Carolina, a contractor's license is only required for jobs that cost $40,000 or more. But while that license doesn't guarantee success in a job, it does show a certain amount of professionalism and competence as well as required knowledge of the permitting procedure and State Building Code.
- Get proof of insurance and verify it so you're not liable for problems.
- Get a written contract that specifically lists what will be done, a payment schedule and a time table, including a completion date as well as information about permitting requirements.
- Never pay too much up front.
- Make sure you get a copy of your "Certificate of Occupancy" from the Town of Cary. This is proof that the work was permitted and inspections were approved. (You can also ask for your permit number and follow your projects permitting & inspections status via our online permitting website)
Contractor Licenses - How to check
Obtain the proper permits
While a contractor can act as a homeowner's agent and pick up the necessary permits, it is the homeowner's responsibility to make sure that the appropriate permits are obtained.
Permits: When they're required and when they aren't
Additional site approvals and environmental permits for residential projects (ex. floodplain, stream buffer impacts, erosion control for land disturbance) may be required in addition to a building permit.
Please Remember: You should never pay contractors in full until the job is complete, all inspections have been approved and you are satisfied with the work.