Top 5 Issues With Remodeling Projects Seen Through the Eyes of a Contractor
With all of the numerous sales calls or project consultations that I have attended here are the most common issues that I run into on a regular basis. This is not anyone’s fault. When most people hear the word contractor, they automatically think that they are going to be dealing with a shady character that is going to charge them a lot of money, not show up or complete the job, and will never be heard from again. Although there are a TON of "fly by night" or unlicensed individuals that operate like this all across our country,
Nesco Construction made the choice to be a professional contractor that is properly licensed with a contractors license issued by the Nevada Contractors Board. We also hold business licenses in Clark County, City of Las Vegas, City of Henderson, and City of North Las Vegas to be able to apply for building permits in each of these jurisdictions. Nesco Construction also has general liability insurance, workers compensation insurance, and is bonded. This is our profession and means a great deal to us to do the job right the first time. We also stand behind our work.
Here are the Top 5 issues with Remodeling Projects as seen through the eyes of a Contractor
1. No budget or unrealistic budget for project. You are not able to complete a whole house renovation that would include redoing the interior of the house for $10,000.00. OR building an addition to your home for the same $10K. Having a budget that is realistic for what you want is a huge step to making your dreams into reality.
2. Having no plans with structural engineering for project. As most customers do not even realize that a complete set of plans is needed/required for a remodeling or new building project. Nesco Construction is able to have plans drawn up and structural engineering completed for your project that in turn will help us to provide you with a firm price quotation for your project.
3. Unrealistic time frame for completion of project. We can do a lot in a day but, not complete the addition or renovation to your home overnight. Sure most of the home improvement shows on TV have everything happening in an hour or less. All of the behind the scenes planning and preparation is mind blowing to be able to accomplish what is shown in an hour.
4. Not understanding that you have to have building permits issued by the government entity that your house is located in and have inspections completed by building inspector. When you decide to sell your home there is no question that all of the changes and/or updates comply with building codes.
5. No idea what to expect during project. Depending on the complexity you may want to relocate out of the home until all of the work has been completed. For example if your whole house was being renovated it would be tough to occupy the home if the kitchen and bathrooms were torn out. Nor would you want to try to sleep on a job site. If it is just one room that would be a different story.
Need help with your home improvement projects? Let Nesco Construction do it right the first time! Contact us at 702-432-2812.
Window Performance Ratings
If you have been in the market to replace the windows in your home, there are some things that are good for you to know. The NFRC certification label. This label verifies conformance with the standards that have been set by the National Fenestration Rating Council. These ratings provide detailed information in regards to the performance factors that are listed in four different values.
- U-Factor: The lower the number the better the heat retention. The scale ranges from 0.20 to 1.20.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: Measures how well a window can resist unwanted solar heat gain. Range is from 0 to 1. The lower the number the less you spend on cooling in warmer temperatures.
- Visible Transmittance: Measures how well a window will light your home with daylight. The higher the number the more light that is transmitted.
- Air Leakage: Indicates how much air might be allowed through the cracks in the window assembly. The lower the rating the less air that will pass through the cracks in the window.
Energy Star Label
- Certified and verified to perform at levels that meet or exceed energy efficient guidelines. An Energy Zone climate zone map can help you choose the right windows for the climate that you are located in.
Nesco Construction has replacement windows available that come in either white or tan frames with low-e glass. The window frames are constructed of vinyl.
Licensed Contractors - Did You Know?
Hiring a licensed contractor affords you added protections for your project and home that would not be available if you hired an unlicensed contractor?
• You have up to 4 years from the date work was performed to file a complaint with the Board should something go wrong.
• When you file a complaint, you will receive the full investigative services
of the Board. This may result in the contractor being ordered to remedy the
damages or workmanship issues.
• In circumstances where the contractor is not able to correct the issue, you may be eligible for the Board's Residential Recovery Fund, which is paid into by licensed residential contractors, and may award up to $35,000.
• Additionally, the Board protects homeowners by performing background
checks on all licensed contractors, ensuring they meet strict financial
requirements, and have demonstrated the skills and knowledge necessary to perform in the trade they are working.
• All licensed contractors are required to adhere to all building, labor, and workers' compensation laws.
Credit: Nevada State Contractors Board
Ready, Set, Hire PDF
Ready, Set, Hire: What You Should Know Before Hiring a Contractor
READY, SET, HIRE
Ready...
When researching contractors for a project:
Ask to see their contractor pocket ID card (shown above) and verify their contractor’s license number on NSCB's website.
While on the website:
1. Verify the license number and company name match the information received.
2. Verify the license is in an "Active" status. Suspended, Inactive, or Revoked means the contractor shouldn’t be bidding work.
3. Verify the monetary limit is larger than the cost of your project; this is the
maximum amount a contractor may bid for any single project (including change orders).
4. Review any disciplinary history & contact the Board with any questions.
Set...
Before hiring the contractor you've selected to work with:
5. Get a written contract. Make sure all details of work to be performed are noted, down to the type and color of paint you want. Do not sign anything until you completely understand the terms.
6. You have the right to obtain a list of all subcontractors and material suppliers who will be used on your project. Verify the subcontractors have active contractor’s licenses. This protects you in case you need to contact them directly.
Hire!
Now that your project is underway, stay vigilant of the work being
performed in your home.
7. Don't hover over your contractor(s), but do perform random walk-thrus to ensure work is being done according to schedule and the contract terms.
8. Request any changes to the contract in writing through change orders.
9. Don't let payments get ahead of the work schedule and never pay in cash.
10. Request lien releases after payments are made to the contractor.
11. Don't make a final payment until you are satisfied with the job.
12. Keep a file of all papers, documents, and receipts related to your project.
Credit: Nevada State Contractors Board
Ready, Set, Hire PDF
