What is included in a remodel contract?
Before even thinking about hiring a contractor for your home remodeling project, all agreements and conformities should be placed into writing and this written copy is what you call a remodel contract.
When one thinks about all the paper works, they immediately tend to associate a good amount of hard work into it. That shouldn't be the case. In fact, in a remodel contract all you'll ever need is a staple amount of common sense, organizational skills, combined with, well patience of course. As a general rule, it is always advisable to seek an advice from your personal advisor or an attorney if you have further clarifications or concerns about your remodel contract.
Whether you like it or not, a remodel contract is the most essential part of the entire remodeling project. This is the sole item that binds the job altogether and assures that all the involved parties agree on the same vision and scope for this project.
The contract should include the contractor's full details (name, address, phone number, professional license number). It should also indicate the scope of work or the detailed description of the whole work that is needed to be done. It should also specify all the needed materials to be used (weight, size, color, brand name, quantity, quality, etc.), the material costs, and the labor costs. The remodel contract should clearly bear the commencement and the completion dates and the necessary information that includes the terms of payment and the dates of payments. If there are any, it should also include the guarantees and warranties of the whole workmanship.
And lastly, it should clearly include the right to cancel clause. This is the agreement which is usually 3 days after you have signed the remodel contract, just in case you change your mind. This so-called clause should also disclose the possibilities if there will be unexpected problems that can occur all in the duration of work as well as after the work is done.
These are only some of the usual content in a remodel contract, some may include more, yet some may include less. However, as a safety reminder for everyone who is planning to remodel their homes is to never sign a contract that is not filled out completely. Always read and understand each of the declaration carefully and never hesitate to ask questions. For security purposes, always keep a copy of the contract yourself. And lastly, the most important thing is to never pay more than the minimum required down payment for the remodeling project.
