Home improvement, also known as home renovation or remodeling, is the process of renovating or making additions to one’s home. The goal is to increase the usable living space and improve the overall appeal of a home. Home improvements may be made for a variety of reasons; personal preference, to make the house more comfortable, to keep up with maintenance or repair work, or to add amenities like a pool or additional rooms.
Home improvements can be very expensive and some projects wind up costing more than initially expected. According to a September NerdWallet survey, however, most homeowners who take on home repairs and improvement projects stick to the budget they set for them.
Whether you’re looking to freshen up a tired bathroom, install a new kitchen or turn your basement into a living space for the kids, the most important thing is to find a contractor you trust. Before you hire someone, check to see if they are licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs and/or accredited by a professional association and that their business references are satisfactory.
Also, be sure to get a written contract that includes a description of the work and the materials to be used as well as an estimated date when the performance will start and when it will be substantially completed. The contract must also include the contractor’s name, address, MHIC license number and a disclosure that any claim against the Guaranty Fund will be stayed until arbitration is complete.