Hiring A Contractor

• Home Repair Schemes Can Be Costly
  Tips on avoiding con artists out to make a quick dollar
• Finding a reputable contractor
  Here are some tips on hiring competent home improvement professionals
• Tip-Offs to Rip-Offs
  Not all contractors operate within the law -- Here are some tip-offs to potential rip-offs
• Interviewing Potential Contractors
  Asking questions before you sign a home improvement contract can help prevent problems.
• Understanding Your Payment Options
  Some tips on securing financing for home improvement projects
• Spotting scams
  Beware of door-to-door home improvement salesmen bearing financing offers
• Who, what, where, when and how much?
  Getting the details of your remodeling project into a written contract
• Completing the job
  Before you make that final payment, use this checklist to make sure the job is complete
• When jobs go bad
  Some tips on resolving problems with home improvement projects
• Hiring a Contractor for Crown Molding
  Crown molding adds a classic, finishing touch to any home. Here's how to find a contractor to add this great architectural detail.
• Finding The Right Contractor For Your Project
  When renovating an old house, it's important to find the right contractor. Here's how to weed through your options and find the right fit.
• When to Turn to a Contractor
  Wondering whether you need to hire a professional for your next old house project? Here's how to know when a project is beyond your own skills.
• When to Hire a Contractor
  We're remodeling a bath and wonder if the carpentry is more than we can handle.
• Hiring a Good Supervising Contractor
  Wondering how your contractor will do with the day-to-day supervision of workers?
• Understanding Architectural Fees
  If you're hiring an architect for the first time, you may be confused by the services he or she provides and how fees are determined. Here's an overview of the fees.
• Understanding "Time and Materials" Charges
  Most contractors charge a project fee for major work, but there are times when contractor charge for "time and materials." Here's a look at what this means and how to protect yourself from runaway charges.
• Hiring an Architect for an Addition
  Wondering whether you need an architect for a room addition? In most cases, it's a good idea to have one. Here's why you shouldn't skimp on architectural services.
• Hiring a Contractor: Who Will Do The Work?
  When planning a renovation, consider whether the contractor uses employees or subcontractors. Here are the pros and cons of each type of situation.