B. DECIDE IF AN ARCHITECT IS APPROPRIATE

If your work entails aesthetic design issues, structural changes or complex modifications, then an architect will be beneficial.

However, if the job is fairly simple, then a good contractor will be able to handle the design work himself or he may recommend a designer who is not an architect. If unsure of your needs, visit with a contractor and an architect to decide what level of service is appropriate for you.

In either case, the importance of good planning cannot be stressed enough. Problems solved in the planning stage on paper are far less costly than changes made during construction. Spending time developing good plans and specifications saves time and money for all parties. Make your design decisions without all the pressure of construction time constraints.

Construction designs require different skills. Make sure you feel comfortable before you make a commitment to either contractor or architect.

2. TURNKEY: The contractor commits to a fixed price for overruns in the original specifications. Changes requested during construction are documented and signed by both the contractor and the homeowner. Payment for changes is typically made prior to the change being made.

3. COMBINATION: If the homeowner elects to perform part of the work himself, a combination of (1) and (2) may result. The written contract should be absolutely clear as to what work and responsibility each party will accept.

D. SELECTING YOUR REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Look for these characteristics:

• Financial Stability - Ask for banking and supplier references and check them.
• Previous Work Record - Ask for a list of current customer references and check them. Try to see some of the contractor's work. Many problems can be avoided by thorough investigation before hiring a contractor.
• Professional Organization Affiliations - Be sure to check your contractor's current standing of membership status with all related trade/professional organizations; i.e. (NARI Greater Chicagoland, Better Business Bureau)
• Adequate Insurance - Be sure your contractor is covered by insurance to protect you and your property against loss or possible suit, should an accident occur during construction.
• Personality - Make sure you feel comfortable with your contractor. You should be able to communicate easily. Your contractor should be able to reflect your tastes and needs accurately. You should feel that your contractor would be a trusted companion in your home for the duration of your work.
• Honesty - Evaluate your contractor's integrity and competency. Beware of an unusually low bid or low advertised prices. If a contractor cannot pay for materials, labor and overhead, then you are both in trouble, and your job may not be completed.

E. KNOW YOUR CONTRACTOR'S RESPONSIBILITIES

• To furnish a written contract, detailing all work to be done. Read it carefully!
• To be responsible for all phases of the job from start to finish, including scheduling, labor and materials.
• To coordinate all work with various sub-contractors to avoid costly and unnecessary delays.
• To perform all work according to specifications, to obtain building permits, and to arrange required inspections with sub-contractors.
• To be familiar with building codes and standard construction practices.
• To leave the job site clean and free of construction debris upon completion.
  

F. BE FAMILIAR WITH HOME REMODELING LAWS (Illinois)

The federal government enacted a law effective on June 1, 1999 requiring home remodelers to distribute the Environmental Protection Agency pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home" to consumers in pre-1978 housing. The home remodelers are required to obtain a signed acknowledgement stating that the homeowner has received this pamphlet. Visit the EPA Web Site for more information www.epa.gov/lead.

Lead Pamphlet (pdf document)

The State of Illinois enacted a law effective January 1, 2000 stating that all home repair and/or remodeling contracts over $1000.00 must be in writing and the "Home Repair: Know Your Consumer Rights" brochure must accompany the contract. The State of Illinois requires contractors to obtain a signed acknowledgement stating that the homeowner has received this brochure. Visit the Attorney General's Web Site at www.ag.state.il.us.

Home Repair Brochure (pdf document)

G. KNOW YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

It will help keep the remodeling project running smoothly and efficiently, if you:

• Make sure the contractor has access to your home in order to complete the work on time and on budget.
• Select one person to be the contact with the contractor, to keep informed of job progress, and to answer questions as they arise.
• Avoid confusion and do not visit with workers or sub-contractors while they are working. They are not responsible for solving problems; the contractor needs to do so.
• Do not make verbal requests and changes. Make sure you obtain a signed change order, in order to avoid misunderstandings and "surprise" extra changes.

HAPPY REMODELING !

Sincerely,
The Board of Directors
NARI of Greater Chicagoland