Page 101 - HBG 2019-watermarked

that they are licensed and insured. If a worker damages something in your
house — for example, cracking a pipe while installing a closet — you will be
assured of compensation.
Choosing wisely: When choosing a contractor, you may want to take a look
at a current work site — is it organized and safe? This is especially important
if you intend to live in the house while the work is being done.

Even if a contractor has an excellent reputation, if he has recently changed
subcontractors or hired different workers, the quality of his work may
change, so try to speak with someone who has worked with him as recently
as possible. Questions you may want to ask include:
‹ Was he punctual?
‹ Did he stick to the budget and timeline?

‹ How did he handle any problems that arose?

The Architect Option
Do you need an architect? Many builders appreciate being approached to
quote on a job once the client already has preliminary sketches from an
architect. These may cost several hundred dollars, but pay off in savings of
time and money, as both customer and builder have an idea of the parameters
of the project, and can create a more accurate estimate.
Submitting your plans: All building and renovations require that plans be
submitted to the township by an architect. The one exception to this rule is
when the homeowner serves as his own general contractor. In this case, he is
allowed to submit the plans himself. For simple projects, a space planner can
prepare an outline of your plans for you to complete and submit on your own.
(One caveat: being named in the plans as your own contractor can potentially
make it harder to recoup a claim from your builder’s insurance.)

Realistic Planning
Make sure to plan for sufficient time to allow your workmen to complete
their work. Eager homeowners are notorious for under-estimating the time
necessary for construction. While countless variables can affect a project
time-line, there are certain minimums you should plan for. For example, your
new deck might be built in 2 days, and your kitchen completed within 2-3
weeks, but finishing your basement will require 6-8 weeks. If you are building
a 3-4000 square foot home from scratch, allow 6-8 months for construction.

2020 Lakewood Home Buyer’s Guide | 101