Consider a payment and performance bond when working with a handyman
Consider a payment and performance bond. On larger jobs, you may want to request a payment and performance bond. While there will be an additional charge for the bond, it provides assurance that your project will be completed. A reputable contractor will be bondable for a small additional fee.
After You Have Hired a Contractor — Before work begins, make sure you have a complete and accurate set of contract documents. These should include:
•A complete set of plans showing exactly what you are going to build. It is suggested that you engage the services of a licensed architect or engineer to prepare these or at least review them to ensure their accuracy and completeness.
•A complete set of specifications relating to the plans drawn. These should be prepared or reviewed by an architect or engineer.
•A detailed contract with a set of general and accepted conditions and specifications. You may wish to have your attorney prepare these or review them prior to your signature. No work should be allowed until all documents are completed to your architect’s, attorney’s or your satisfaction.
Ask your contractor about inconveniences that may occur and plan for them.
If a building permit is required for the job, be sure the contractor obtains it before the work starts and that it is posted at the job site. Do not pull or obtain the building permit yourself.