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Where can I find information pertaining to home improvement contracts?

Where can I find information pertaining to home improvement contracts?

Q: What not to tell a contractor?

Avoid sharing personal financial details or your maximum budget upfront, as this can affect negotiation. Do not disclose any previous negative experiences with contractors unless relevant, as it may influence their approach. It's also wise not to rush the contractor; allow them time to provide a thorough estimate and plan.

Full question:

Where can I find information pertaining to home improvement contracts?

Category: Contractors
Date: 04/07/2025
State: District of Columbia

Answer:

Home improvement contracts are a tool to make sure that contractors and consumers agree on the work to be performed: how it will be done, when it will be done, what materials will be used, and how much it will cost. A well-written contract is also a tool that helps ensure enforcement of the agreement, if necessary. A contract can be oral or written. Home improvement contracts over $500 must be written. In almost all cases, it's best to put a contract in writing. It shows that there was a contract, and it proves what you and the other party agreed to do. All contracts should include the price agreed upon for the work.

Home improvement is the repairing, remodeling, altering, converting, modernizing or adding to residential property. Examples of home improvement are the construction, erection, replacement or improvement of: driveways, swimming pools, including spas and hot tubs, terraces, patios, awnings, storm windows, landscaping fences, kitchens, baths, porches, garages, basements and other structural improvements on land adjacent to a dwelling. In no particular order, here are frequently seen problems with home improvement contracts:

Excessive down payment requested.
Equipment to be used or installed not detailed, and materials to be used not described specifically enough.
Notice to owner regarding liens not included.
Job to be completed is not clearly stated and described.
Bid not figured out carefully and/or completely.
Change orders not included.
Old notices used with old addresses and noncompliant language.
Start and stop dates not included

If the payment schedule contained in the contract provides for a down payment to be paid to the contractor by the owner or the tenant before the commencement of work, it is recommended that the down payment not exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) or 10 percent of the contract price for home improvements, excluding finance charges, whichever is less. A home improvement contract should include the schedule of payments showing the amount of each payment as a sum in dollars and cents. It should be specifically referenced to the amount of work or services to be performed and to any materials and equipment to be supplied for that payment. If the contractor has not begun the work within 20 days of the contract start date, the payment schedule specified in the contract should be postponed for the period of time equivalent to the time between when substantial commencement was to have occurred and when it actually occurred.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What should I look for in a remodeling contract?

When reviewing a remodeling contract, ensure it includes a clear scope of work, detailed descriptions of materials, a payment schedule, and start and completion dates. Look for clauses about change orders and warranties. It’s also important that the contract specifies how disputes will be resolved. Make sure the contractor's license and insurance information are included to protect yourself from potential liabilities.

What are the 5 essential elements of a construction contract?

The five essential elements of a construction contract are: 1) Offer, which outlines the work to be done; 2) Acceptance, where both parties agree to the terms; 3) Consideration, which refers to the payment terms; 4) Legality, ensuring the contract complies with local laws; and 5) Capacity, confirming that both parties have the legal ability to enter into the contract.

What is a home improvement contract?

A home improvement contract is a written agreement between a homeowner and a contractor detailing the work to be performed on a residential property. It includes specifics such as project scope, materials, timelines, and payment terms. For contracts exceeding five hundred dollars, a written format is required to protect both parties and clarify responsibilities.

What to look for in a remodel contract?

In a remodel contract, check for a detailed description of the work, a clear payment schedule, and timelines for project completion. Ensure it includes information about materials and any warranties. Look for clauses regarding change orders and how disputes will be handled. Also, verify that the contractor is licensed and insured.

What is the basic information of a construction contract?

A construction contract should include the names of the parties involved, a detailed description of the work to be performed, the total cost, and payment terms. It should specify start and completion dates, any required permits, and provisions for change orders. Additionally, it should address dispute resolution processes and include the contractor's licensing and insurance details.