It’s news that no homeowner ever wants to receive: your home isn’t permitted for the completed remodeled job.
But that’s exactly what happened to homeowners in Philadelphia.
A contractor in Philadelphia performed renovation work on several homes in the area without getting proper permits for the construction work. The homes had problems with duct work, wobbly deck, and a leaky skylight and dishwasher.
The unknowing homeowners are now left with sorting through the mess and paying for the repairs. They’re being forced to have the work repaired or pay fines.
The city of Philadelphia has suspended the contractor’s license from working in Philadelphia but that doesn’t force the contractor to pay for the repairs needed. So, for now those homeowners are struggling to get their homes up to city code. Source.
This is the kind of home remodeling nightmare story that every homeowner wants to avoid.
But, with home remodeling on the rise, homeowners are finding more options for remodeling companies as new firms pop up in the area.
Finding the right one that suits your style and can deliver on time and on budget requires doing your homework. Here are a few tips to help you identify the best match for home remodel work.
Check on the contractor’s license: always check to see if the contractor’s license is up to date. You can also check with organizations like the Better Business Bureau to view records of complaints. You can check a contractor’s license online with the California Department of Consumer Affairs by entering the contractor’s license number on the Website. The license number should be displayed on marketing materials and on the company’s Website.
Ask for references: You can view the company’s testimonials and check with references to see how past home remodel jobs turned out.
See their work in progress: Ask if you can visit a current project or, if you see the contractor’s signs on the street, drop by the home and pay the homeowner a visit. Sometimes contractors that are working on a big home remodel in the neighborhood will send out a letter to let the neighbors know their will be some construction on a particular street. This is the perfect opportunity to meet the contractor and see the work the company is doing.
Check out their social platforms: The Internet has made it far easier than it used to be to check and see what a company is like. Go to their social platforms and follow them to see what types of jobs they’re working on, what type of reputation and vibe the company has, and if it’s responsive to its audience. Read the company blog and newsletters to see if you’re getting valuable information from the remodeling company.
View photo and video galleries: Remodeling companies that care about their projects will take the time to have them professionally shot. They should have quality photos and videos online so that you can see the type of work they’ve done. It’s all the better if they have video testimonials and stories that paint a picture about what it’s like to work with the firm.
Interview the contractor firm: This isn’t just about making sure the contractor has fulfilled its business requirements, this is about finding a good fit for you the customer. A good home remodeling company will listen to your needs, give you expert advice and guidance for the best outcome for your home remodel, help you understand the new trends in home remodeling, and walk you through the process so you can feel comfortable with the price and process.
Remember home remodeling doesn’t have to be a nightmare, if you do your homework and hire the right remodeling company. Keep in mind that codes change and permit requirements vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Talk with your contractor about your area. There are many remodeling companies choose from so take your time, attend seminars, watch their work online and ask questions to make sure you’re working with the right contractor for your home remodel.
Watch to see our home remodeling process.
