Having home improvement work done should be an exciting experience. Unfortunately, a competent, honest remodeling contractor is not always easy to find. There are thousands of reliable, trustworthy contractors out there — but there are plenty of un-employed fellas with a circular saw and cordless drill that think they are a contractor, too. Here are some things to watch for: 1. License/ Insurance All contractors in Wisconsin are required to be registered with the State or carry a Dwelling Contractor license. A good pro should volunteer documentation. Click here to check a credential. Also verify that the contractor carries liability insurance and workman’s comp. insurance. If not, you may be responsible for any damage or injuries that occur on or to your property. 2. Avoid sleazy or shady tactics. The first thing to do is make sure you're not being scammed. Beware of these red flags:     -Unable to verify credentials or references.     -Offers a special price only if you sign now or gives you a low-ball offer that sounds too good to be true.     -Accepts only cash, wants the entire cost up front or asks you to write a check in his name (not to the business).     -Won't provide a written contract or complete bid.     -Refuses to apply for building permits and asks you to get them.     -Offers unreasonably long warranties (everything on a house wears out or needs maintenance).     -Wants to do most or all of the work on weekends or after-hours 3. Check the work. When you meet with contractors, ask for photos of completed jobs that are similar to yours. Check references and ask pertinent questions such as:     -Was the original budget met? If not, what happened?     -How would you describe the quality of the work?     -Was the job site kept clean and organized?     -Was the project completed on time?     -Would you work with this contractor again? Word-of-mouth recommendations have long been one of the most reliable means of finding competent contractors. Seek references from neighbors, friends, colleagues and real-estate agents. 4. Check the paperwork. If you have doubts, contact the Better Business Bureau and check for complaints. When comparing competitor's bids, make sure everything is spelled out. This includes the scope of the work, materials specified, warranties, references, time frames, cost overruns, payment schedule and price. 5. Check the bills. Always pay with a check, never by cash. Pay invoices incrementally as each significant phase of work is completed. Be careful about paying for work that hasn't been finished. Before making the final payment, do a visual inspection of the entire project and make a punch list of any repairs or uncompleted work. Put all change orders in writing; avoid verbal contracts.

P.O. Box 704
Baraboo, WI 53913
Phone - 608.963.5609
info@granitebluff.com