A lot goes into a home improvement project. Among the most important factors are the associated contracts, guarantees, and warranties. Understanding the ins and outs of these documents before getting started will ensure your home renovation is successful.
Contract
A written contract from your home improvement contractor is the minimum you need before starting your project. The document will outline what is expected of the contractor and any sub-contractors. Your contract will include project details, budget and payment schedules, proof of insurance, and product/material warranties.
Change Order
A change order is basically an addendum to your original contract. Your contractor will create one of these if they need to deviate from the initial plan. Almost all home improvement projects come with at least one change order.
Punch List
A punch list is the final stage of your original contract. Your contractor will complete this document near the end of the project. A punch list is like a checklist for all the work that was supposed to be finished. After the project is finished, you walk through your home with your contractor to make sure that all of the work you paid for is completed.
Home Improvement Guarantee
A home improvement guarantee is a guarantee that all work is completed to your contract specifications. It acts as an extra layer of safety. Though these are most often offered by retailers (like Home Depot), they are becoming more common with independent contractors as well.
Manufacturer Warranty
You should ensure that your contractor provides you with written manufacturer warranties for all products and materials they use for your project. These warranties will protect you if a product fails before the warranty expires. Ensure that you file away all warranties with their associated purchase receipts. For example, Window World of Atlanta provides extensive home improvement warranties in Atlanta, GA for all of their windows, doors, and other products.
Extended Warranty Program
In certain circumstances, an extended warranty will be offered at an additional cost. You should consider investing in such a program if the product/material involved will likely require repairs in the future. It’s also smart to invest in an extended warranty program if the original warranty covers only a short period of time.
It’s important to read the fine print when starting a home renovation project. The contracts, warranties, and other documents involved are essential to the overall success of your project.