Working Caregiver- Five Tips to Know Before the Remodel
Remodeling Tips for Seniors in Austin
Home Improvements for Senior Homes
Five tips to know before the remodel - Tips for Seniors
When a senior or their family member seeks remodeling advice or home improvements, it's a good idea to follow Lucy Katz's, Katz Builder's Inc., recommendations!
1. Only work with a Contractor that is registered with the Texas Residential Construction. Check if they are in good standing or have complaints at www.trcc.state.tx.us.
2. Know exactly what the Contractor is providing by reviewing blue prints and specifications. They should be included in your written contract. Don't wait until the last minute to get a copy of the Contract. Read it early in the interview process to familiarize yourself with any issues you don't agree as you may not come to a resolution. Some things may not be negotiable. You need to decide what issues you are willing to compromise and do so early on. Be sure you understand everything in the contract. Never sign an incomplete contract and make sure all the blanks are filled and financial information is addressed.
3. "The Right of Rescission" is a law that requires a contractor to give you a written notice of your right, without penalty, to cancel a contract within three business days after signing. All contracts should be signed at an appropriate place of business. They should not be signed at the Contractor's place of business. Know if there is a penalty should you decide to cancel at any given time after the "Right of Rescission" as well as how change orders are handled.
4 Be sure you understand the warranty the Contractor provides. Some Contractors use an insured third party to warranty their work. These companies, often times, are still around long after the Contractor is out of business. Texas warranties are as follows: One year workmanship and materials, i.e., paint, carpet, etc. Two years for mechanical delivery systems, i.e., plumbing, electrical and HVAC. Ten years for structural, i.e., foundation, roof, framing. Ten years for habitability.
5 Have in writing exactly what the process will be and what to expect while the Contractor is working in your home. Where will the dumpster and porta be placed; what vegetation will be removed; how will they draw electricity and water; what hours will they be working; how long will the project take; will they create a time table of when things are expected to be done.
Lucy T. Katz, CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) is VP of Customer Service & Client Development for Katz Builders, Inc., Custom Builders & Remodelers. Lucy is also a board member of AUSTIN NARI and serves on the State Remodelers Council Chair for TAB. See the alphabetical member listings for more information. Contact Lucy Katz at www.katzbuilders.com
