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Getting a Written Contract When Dealing With A Building Contractor
INTERESTING 
Tags: Contractor, Written Contract, Home Improvement
Contract requirements vary by state. Even if your state does not require a written agreement, ask for one. A contract spells out the who, what, where, when and cost of your project. The agreement should be clear, concise and complete. Before you sign a contract, make sure it contains:
| | The contractor’s name, address, phone, and license number, if required. |
| | The payment schedule for the contractor, subcontractors and suppliers. |
| | An estimated start and completion date. |
| | The contractor’s obligation to obtain all necessary permits. |
| | How change orders will be handled. A change order — common on most remodeling jobs — is a written authorization to the contractor to make a change or addition to the work described in the original contract. It could affect the project’s cost and schedule |
| | A detailed list of all materials including color, model, size, brand name, and product. |
| | Warranties covering materials and workmanship. The names and addresses of the parties honoring the warranties — contractor, distributor or manufacturer — must be identified. The length of the warranty period and any limitations also should be spelled out. |
| | What the contractor will and will not do. For example, is site clean-up and trash hauling included in the price? Ask for a "broom clause." It makes the contractor responsible for all clean-up work, including spills and stains. |
| | Oral promises also should be added to the written contract. |
| | A written statement of your right to cancel the contract within three business days if you signed it in your home or at a location other than the seller’s permanent place of business. |
| | During the sales transaction, the salesperson (contractor) must give you two copies of a cancellation form (one to keep and one to send back to the company) and a copy of your contract or receipt. |
| | The contract or receipt must be dated, show the name and address of the seller, and explain your right to cancel. |
Lister:
Angie
Source:
FTC
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