The needs of nearly every motorist are unique, and similarly the services provided by different insurers often varies in coverage and quality. When looking for an automobile protection plan it’s important for vehicle owners to know the type and extent of protection they will be needing as well as which policy provider is best suited to fit those needs. Searching for the ideal insurer typically involves a fair amount of research that encapsulates many different characteristics, such as a company’s price range, provided coverage, quality of service, and overall financial strength. An excellent place to begin a search is by completing an online quote comparison which gives estimates from a wide variety of insurers.

Discovering where to find the best insurance price often begins with an online comparison of quotes because traditional methods of obtaining estimates is generally considered to be less efficient. Typically motorists in search of pricing information would have to contact a series of insurers and answer multiple questions before retrieving the necessary figures. Price alone, however, should not determine one’s policy provider. The amount of coverage that is being provided is an essential part of every protection plan. Vehicle owners should strive to obtain a policy that is both adequately priced and is still able to meet the motorist’s coverage needs. Furthermore, the quality of a company from both a social and financial standpoint should be taken into account when choosing an insurer.

Specific Characteristics of Car Insurance Companies

Typically the more favorable insurers are ones that treat their customers courteously and handle claims with speed and efficiency. What many motorists don’t realize is that comparing these characteristics can often be as easy as comparing quotes. Contacting a coverage provider’s customer service department and asking a series of questions may shed some light on their attentiveness to customer needs. Additionally, many state Insurance Departments publish a Consumer complaint index which catalogs any justifiable complaints that a person may have with a specific insurer. This can be extremely helpful because oftentimes the experiences of others can provide some valuable insight into the inner workings of a company. Speak with friends, neighbors, or family about previous interactions with specific insurers and ask for recommendations. Although this information is helpful, it’s also important to note that it is still largely based on opinion and should be taken as such.

For a more factual perspective on the quality of an insurer, motorists may wish to investigate the financial well being of numerous policy providers before choosing a protection plan. Few motorists would be too enthusiastic about purchasing insurance from a company that is unable to meet it’s financial obligations or is on the verge of bankruptcy. Motorists should know that no company, no matter how large is exempt from financial ruin, so doing an adequate amount of research can often prove to be enlightening. To assist in gather information drivers should utilize data from businesses that regularly rate insurers on numerous categories, including financial strength, creditworthiness, and financial history. With these details a vehicle owner can find a policy provider that is stable, efficient, and best suited for their own personal needs.

Construction jobs are everywhere in Dallas and those interested in this field can find employment easily. Construction jobs are generally well paid and attract many job candidates to Dallas, Texas. Job seekers often make use of the job listings to search for such jobs online.

Construction and building personnel often engage in many types of work such as surveying land, erecting structures, performing finish work, environmental assessment, planning and logistics. They are also responsible for repairing of machinery, installing mechanical systems and operation of heavy equipment. The need for such professionals keeps increasing everyday in Dallas and both part time and full time employment is available in this field.

Pre-requisites for construction jobs

Candidates for construction jobs must be reliable, efficient and should be able to work in a team. They must be able to solve problems quickly and also be able to create and operate machinery. Construction tasks are often hard physical work so job seekers should keep this in mind.

Job options

Different areas require construction professionals in Dallas for completion of work related to construction, renovation, building and maintenance of projects all over. Those working in this field must be able to conduct soil tests and also be able to survey the land. Job aspirants must have an eye for detail and should be resourceful to work efficiently in this field. People working in this area must also be able to prepare illustrations and technical graphs, help in the development of final construction plans, prepare land surveys and maps, blueprints and sketches and be able to operate trucks and bull dozers and other equipment such as asphalt equipment.  As time goes on environmental impacts play a more major role in construction so it is good for candidates to have some appreciation for this area.

Skills and Training

Much of construction is learned on the job.  You can get a chance to learn from the best by working in the construction field in Dallas. Candidates can also get an opportunity to work with sophisticated tools and heavy equipment available. Filed and classroom training is often provided to job aspirants in the construction field.

Job options

Job options in the field of construction in Dallas are Plumber, civil engineer, electrician, carpenter, Architectural Drafter, Automobile Mechanic, Hydraulic mechanic, Diesel mechanic, Illustrator, Construction Operating Engineer, sheet metal worker, refrigeration Mechanic etc.  As workers get more experience they can move onto more managerial roles such as Project Manager, Construction Manager, and Design Engineer.

One advantage of working in the construction field is the satisfaction workers get from seeing the results of their labor.

Information technology (IT) is a huge industry in the US and it is a major support for the New York economy.  There are many IT jobs and careers in New York and this ensures a steady stream of candidates going there seeking IT work.  A large number of IT corporate giants operate in New York which provides loads of opportunities in the IT field.

There are many and varied job descriptions within information technology which provide exciting prospects. IT audit, data mining, knowledge management, information management, hardware repair and maintenance, IT audit, cyber laws, cryptology, information security management, technology assessment, IT architecture strategy and the like are the specialized streams that require excellent aptitude, sound IT skills and a sharp inclination towards the technical aspect of IT.  Job seekers with some of these skills and experience are offered excellent job opportunities in New York. The volume and scope of IT work in New York has shown a consistent rise in the recent years.

The US is home to many IT giants like Microsoft, Yahoo, RedHat, Cisco and Epson etc., New York enjoys a significant presence of a number of premier IT firms and has supported the tremendous growth of information technology industry to a great extent. Other IT careers that corporate companies in New York offer are app design, software development, web design, internet services, hardware and networking, and mobile computing.

Growth offered by the IT sector

Job seekers are drawn to the IT industry with the perks, training and experience they can gain.  IT companies in New York provide fast paced and dynamic environments that foster excellence and personal growth. Rewarding career opportunities are available in worldwide locations too which offers travel options. Many companies are in the process of expanding operations, to help that expansion the company is constantly seeking professionals in software design, development, sales, marketing, accounting and finance operations and many others.

Furthermore, large IT companies offer excellent in-house training programmes that enable employees to further develop their skill base and move into other desirable roles within the organization.  This also gives them scope to seek employment at other companies.  The IT sector being what it is, there is a constant need for staff to maintain their skills and companies recognize that they need to continually train their IT personnel.

Other work opportunities

University and college IT graduates are in an ideal situation.  There are great opportunities for individuals who are qualified with an IT degree to explore their careers in the different companies in New York. Whether candidates are newly out of college or experienced individuals, all have great career opportunities. There are numerous IT companies that have created a lot of career option and hence great opportunities.

Anchorage is a thriving city and offers many interesting and diverse job opportunities.  Alaska is a relatively wealth state in the US which is attractive for people looking to move there.  Federal subsidies also exist to keep taxes low – another advantage of living in this part of the country.

Work opportunities

Job vacancies in the government sector in Anchorage exist for positions such as transportation mechanics and drivers,  inspectors, patrol agents, teachers, medical assistants, receptionists, counselors, social workers, medical secretaries and so forth. Both part time and full time job openings exist in the government sector and training is also provided for these jobs.

By working with various government departments, you can have visibility and wide exposure to conduct business and interact with important functional areas. Job aspirants can also make use of government contracting work experience.

The military is another sphere of work where there are numerous vacancies available in Anchorage.  The three major US military bases employ 8,500 people alone.  Job seekers can work in active duty or take up part time reserve jobs. Both these services offer a lot of jobs which can later get changed into civilian jobs once the military service period is over. In the military itself, people are required to handle a lot of responsibilities such as artillery, tanks, indirect fire support, medical teams, pilots and a wide array of other specialties that utilize the highest level of technology.

Applicants can also take up other senior positions available with the Special forces, pilot/aviation, aviation and other types of administrative jobs. Even sectors such as Air Force, Arts & Media, Army, Combat, Aviation support, Computers & Technology, Coast Guard, Construction and Engineering, Electronics, Legal, Intelligence, Law Enforcement, Marines, Medical & Emergency, Logistics and Supplies, Navy, Transportation and special force require candidates continuously.

Additional job opportunities

Tourism has become a major contributor to the Alaskan economy and provide many varied types of employment including tour guides, tour operators, hospitality, cleaners, hotel managers, cooks, chefs, bus drivers and more.

The Port of Anchorage receives 95% of Alaska’s goods entering the state.  As such many workers are employed there.
Furthermore, the Port is currently being expanded which is providing a significant number of construction jobs.

Job Requirements

Obviously depending on the job being applied for, the more experience and skills applicants have in that area then the better chances of securing employment.   Job applicants should also consider the cold environment that Alaska provides and this may not suit everyone.  Nonetheless, there are many lucrative job openings in Anchorage which could satisfy a non-permanent move to Alaska.

Job seekers can find lucrative executive job openings in reputed firms in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Executive jobs are available in areas such as hospitality industry, advertising and media, travel industry, insurance, health care, retail sector etc.  Minnesota and Saint Paul have many reputable firms such as 3M, Ford Motor Company, Ecolab and Lawson Software.

Sales Executives

The important job of sales executives in Minnesota is to locate new markets and business opportunities in the area. They must also try to increase and develop sales in sectors such as industrial supplies, software, print and financial services, fast moving consumer goods and IT.  Sales executives typically have a sales team that work under them so they must be able to motivate team members to achieve sales goals.

Other Work Opportunities

Sales Executives must be able to obtain new business and improve existing business by being in touch with customers through mails, chats etc. They can also sell airtime and program sponsorship to advertisers. They are also fully responsible for performance of revenue of assigned accounts. They must be able to promote products and services to existing and new customers by conducting outbound and inbound calls. They must be able to solve customer queries through web, phone etc and must also be willing to support all telemarketing activities.

Options In The Sales And Marketing Field

Other options available for executives in Saint Paul include marketing executive, customer service executive, marketing manager, sales representative, sales manager, customer service manager, assistant sales manager, sales executive, etc among others. Those willing to work as executives must have a bachelor’s degree and some years of prior experience to work in a higher level in the marketing field.

Additional Activities Of An Executive

Executives must also try to close and negotiate business agreement terms and try to develop new business. They must act as a mediator between the new markets and the company. Sales Executieves acting on behalf of the company in events and demonstrations also come under their job role. They must also discuss with managers regarding price variations and product delivery. They must also put forth new ideas pertaining to special promotions and product developments. They must closely monitor the supply of stocks send documents to the sales office besides recording sales information. In some companies, sales executives must also develop and maintain good relationship with existing advertisers. They also have to give support to advertisers regarding inquiries and issues. Executives have a wide job role and it depends on the type of organization where they are employed and the size of the firm.

Minnesota has many firms that hire executive personnel.  Candidates with good experience and qualifications will have many job options and be well paid for their efforts.

Many engineering job opportunities exist in West Virgina. Coal producing is a major industry in WV and so creates many engineering careers, among other jobs.  Job candidates can be assured of lucrative pay in some of the reputed firms and can also improve their personal and professional profile by working as engineers in these firms. New engineering  job opportunities generally get added to job listings every week. Job seekers can work in several engineering streams such as network mechanical and metallurgical engineering.

Requirements for an engineer

Those who are searching for jobs in the engineering field must have relevant education and experience. Fresh engineering graduates are offered good salary packages. Other advantages for candiates to have are an MBA degree and experience. Job seekers should continuously update their knowledge so that their career progresses.

Duties of an Aeronautical Engineer

There is a great scope for career advancement for Aeronautical engineers in West Virginia. Aerospace Engineering offers wide scope for growth as it is a developing area. Those interested to work as Aeronautical engineers must have specialization in the designing, development, testing, construction, operation and maintenance of both commercial and military spacecrafts, including their components such as satellites and missiles.

An Aeronautical engineer must monitor the work done by senior engineers and combine their skills and technical expertise. Though the work can be demanding, these professionals are generally very well paid. Candidates must be dedicated and must be hard working and they should also have an eye for detail, and good mathematical skills for a rewarding career.

Role of a Sales Engineer

The main job of the Sales engineers in West Virginia is to sell technologically advanced products. They must know about the processes, products and components. They should be able to negotiate with customers and be able to apply their technical skills. Their work is similar to that of other sales professionals. They should also have good negotiating and persuasion skills for having a good career in the sales field.

Functions of a Materials Engineer

The main function of a Materials Engineer is to study metals, ceramics, plastics and composites for creating materials for applications which may involve communication, power production, or transportation. A Nuclear Engineer must also work with nuclear reactors, fusion and radiation applications. There are many and varied jobs in this field.

Job seekers must have high qualifications from a good education institute. Prior experience in this field is another advantage for job aspirants. Those who have freshly graduated can be considered for entry level jobs. The engineering industry is the backbone of West Virginia’s economy. There are numerous vacancies in some of the best firms in West Virgina. This helps job seekers to interact with a large section of professionals who may have experience in many areas.

The economy is Vermont has been described as “stagnant” but that does not mean that there are not job and career opportunities for those seeking employment there.  Canada is a major trading partner of Vermont and this provides further employment opportunities.

Manufacturing is a key industry in Vermont.  IBM has a key manufacturing plant there which employs many thousands of workers.  Such a large organization provides opportunity and presence and is a magnet for candidates seeking a secure job.  Being such a large corporation means that the job opportunities are varied; from sales to manufacturing , human resources to maintenance.  High management positions are also there should candidates aspire to those positions.

Tourism in Vermont is also a very important industry and therefore, provides vital employment opportunities for locals.  Ski resorts are a major drawcard to the area and so those seeking seasonal employment over winter have many options.  Hospitality provides a large number of job openings, from cooks and chefs to cleaners and wait staff.

For more “secure and stable” employment, job seekers should consider government job vacancies.  Again there are wide and varied number of positions always available for the right candidate.  Job opportunities and careers in the Government sector in Burlington include patrol agents, various inspectors, drivers, teachers, receptionists, administrative assistants, medical assistants, counselors, book keepers, social workers, loan officers, medical secretaries, gardeners, secretaries, data entry operators and the like. Both full time and part time vacancies can be found in the Government sector in Burlington.  For most of these jobs training will also be provided to the successful candidates.

The health system in Vermont is highly regarded in the US and again provides job and career opportunities for aspirants.  By working in the medical centers in Burlington job seekers can get a chance to learn from the experts. The job opportunities are plenty and available for nurses, physicians, specialists, surgeons, doctors etc. Those having some years of experience can be employed in senior positions. One can get to improve his personal and professional profile by working in these reputed hospitals in Burlington.

As you can see, there are many and varied job and career options for job aspriants in Vermont.  Job seekers need not move south or west to obtain their desired employment because chances are they could get a desirable job right in Vermont and therefore continue to be able to live the lifestyle that the state offers.

Information technology (IT) is a boom industry in the US and it is one of the most exciting sectors in Florida.  There are many IT job positions available  in Tampa, FL which provides many opportunities for those seeking a career in IT and the computer industry.  A large number of IT corporate giants operate in Florida with frequent job and career options available.

IT impacts just about every aspect of our lives and so it has impacted all sorts of industry sectors such as legal affairs, administration, security management, premise management etc. as well as the traditional careers in the IT field.

A large and varied number of  jobs exist with the IT field and so the tasks of the IT professional are also varied. The volume and scope of IT jobs in Tampa has shown a consistent rise in the recent years.  Knowledge management, information management, data mining, ,IT audit, hardware repair and maintenance, cyber laws, cryptology, information security management, technology assessment, IT architecture strategy and the like are the specialized streams that require candidates to have excellent aptitude, sound IT skills and a sharp inclination towards the technical aspect of IT.  Candidates with some of these skills and experience are offered excellent job opportunities in Tampa.

The US is home to many IT giants like Microsoft , Cisco, Yahoo, RedHat, and Google etc. and many have a major presence in Florida.  This has supported the tremendous growth of information technology industry to a great extent. Other IT careers that corporate companies in Tampa offer include software development, web design, internet services, hardware and networking, and mobile computing.

Personal growth offered by the IT sector

Many IT companies in Tampa provide fast paced and dynamic environments that foster excellence and personal growth. Rewarding career opportunities are available in the US and abroad. Some companies are in the process of expanding operations and are constantly seeking professionals in software design, development, sales, marketing, accounting and finance operations and many others.

Other work opportunities

There are great opportunities for individuals who are qualified with an IT degree to explore their careers in the different companies in Tampa. Whether candidates are newly out of college or experienced individuals, all have great career opportunities in Tampa. There are numerous IT companies that have created a lot of career option and hence great opportunities.

Furthermore, large IT companies offer excellent in-house training programmes that enable employees to further develop their skill base and move into other desirable roles within the organization.  With the IT world forever evolving, it is imperative that IT personnel keep progressing their skill base and experience.  This will open up even more career doors.

The owner/builder exemption allows a property owner to act as a contractor when building or improving a residential structure on the owner’s property for the owner’s own occupancy. The owner/builder exemption does not apply when the structure that is built or improved is offered for sale or lease within one year of completion.  As an owner/builder, you are exempt from contractor licensing requirements. However, all personnel working directly for you who are not properly licensed subcontractors must be your employees. Therefore, you are required to pay the appropriate state and federal taxes, comply with the requirements of workers compensation insurance, liability insurance, employment taxes, legal minimum wage, overtime hours, etc.

Swimming Pools — When financing and construction are carefully planned, a swimming pool can provide fun and recreation for you and your family while potentially adding to the value of your home. However, without careful planning, the process can be at best, complex and confusing. At worst, you may find yourself owing more money than you anticipated, with a pool that is either unfinished, structurally unsound, or, far from the product you wanted.

A well-designed swimming pool can be a very complex structure. Be specific and carefully plan every feature you want for your pool, know exactly how it should look when finished, what kind of equipment you want, and how much you plan to spend.  Be aware that unusual ground conditions such as expansive soil or large rocks may increase costs. Also, many city and county building regulations require that proper fencing or walls be erected around swimming pools.
Never pay the full amount up front for your swimming pool. According to the law, you should not pay more than 10% or $1,000; whichever is less, to get your project started.

To protect yourself from having liens placed on your property, you may require lien releases from all parties in exchange for payment. Request partial lien releases for partial payments and a final complete lien release for the final payment.  NRS 108.226(1) and (2) provide that every person claiming the benefit of the lien laws, must record his or her notice of lien within 90 days after the completion of the work of improvement, delivery of materials or last performance of labor, whichever is later. Consider discussing with your contractor the possibility of withholding a portion of the contractor’s payment until after the period for filing a lien has expired. The amount withheld should be a figure sufficient to cover all claims which might be filed and should be one upon which you and the contractor can agree.

If a lien is filed against your property, consult an attorney. Often, unlicensed contractors will file liens for their work. Their liens are invalid by law, however, you may be required to incur legal expenses to have them removed. Residential Recovery Fund — When a homeowner has been damaged by a contractor and has done everything possible to get the job completed and/or recover the financial loss, there is a fund established by the Nevada legislature that is designed to help – The Residential Recovery Fund.

Homeowners of single-family residences who have entered into a contract with a licensed residential contractor; have suffered actual damages; and have exhausted all other means of recovery may submit a claim on the Residential Recovery Fund.

The recovery amounts are $35,000 maximum per claim and $400,000 maximum per contractor. However, homeowners may only make a claim on un-recovered damages, not the portion of the work, if any, that has been completed. Extensive documentation will be required.

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.

Keep a file of all documents related to your project. Your file should include: •Signed contract and any signed change orders •List of all subcontractors and suppliers with contact information •Plans and specifications •Copies of building permits and inspections •Cancelled checks and records of payments •Record of all work performed and time on the job •Delivery receipts for materials from suppliers •Lien releases from materials suppliers and subcontractors

Make sure all change orders are in writing. Plan carefully and keep changes to an absolute minimum. Change orders are very expensive for both the homeowner and the contractor and will increase the cost of the project.

If you must make changes, change orders to original specifications should be in writing and signed by both you and the contractor.

Make frequent inspections of work. Review the work as it is being completed.
Do a final “walk –through.”

Prepare a “punch list.” Write a list of minor work that needs to be completed or
repaired. Do not engage in verbal agreements for repairs or additional work.

If problems or disagreements occur, first contact your contractor to try and work them out. If you have complaints about the work, keep notes and notify the contractor. You may wish to document your concerns by writing a letter to the contractor. Remember, any agreements should be in writing. Also, remember to keep copies for your files.
If you find that you are unable to resolve problems with your contractor and feel there may have been a violation of the law, file a complaint with the Nevada State Contractors Board. You have the option to file a complaint with the Board up to four (4) years after completion of qualified services.

Always Insist on a Written Contract. A written contract protects everyone concerned and prevents confusion if anything should go wrong. Be sure that the contract is dated and signed and specifies exactly what is being provided for your money. Do not assume or expect to be provided with anything not specified in the contract. Make sure the contract has adequate plans and specifications or other adequate description of the scope of the work to be performed. Ensure that all change orders are in writing and signed by both you and your contractor. These are things that you should look for on your contract: •The contractor’s license number and classification •The contractor’s monetary limit (the highest amount for which he can contract) •

The exact amount due from you under the contract •The date the work will begin and the number of days for completion •The work to be performed and the materials to be used •The approximate percentage of the work to be subcontracted and a list of subcontractors •The contract is signed and dated by both parties. It may be advisable to look for the following as well: •The name and address of any salesperson who solicited or negotiated the contract, in addition to the name and address of the contractor •A detailed payment schedule •Warranty terms •A provision requiring the contractor to obtain lien releases from all subcontractors and material suppliers. Take the time to review the contract and make sure that you completely understand the contents of the contract before you sign it. Don’t let a contractor or salesperson rush you into anything. If you are confused about the provisions of the contract or have questions about lien rights or other matters, consider hiring an attorney to explain them to you.

NAC 624.6958 Requirements for contracts. (NRS 624.100, 624.940) A contractor shall ensure that each contract for the construction of a residential pool or spa that the contractor enters into:
1. Is evidenced in writing and that any changes to the contract are also evidenced in writing.
2. Contains the following, each of which must be printed in at least 10-point bold type:
(a) The name of the contractor and his business address and license number;
(b) The name and mailing address of the owner and the address or legal description of the property;
(c) The date of execution of the contract;
(d) The estimated date of completion of all work to be performed pursuant to the contract;
(e) A description of the work to be performed pursuant to the contract;
(f) The total amount to be paid to the contractor by the owner for all work to be performed pursuant to the contract, including all applicable taxes;
(g) The amount of any advance deposit paid or promised to be paid to the contractor by the owner in accordance with Subsection 4 of NAC 624.6964;
(h) The dollar amount of any progress payment and the stage of construction at which the contractor will be
entitled to collect progress payments during the course of construction pursuant to the contract in accordance
with Subsection 1 of NAC 624.6964;
(i) A statement that the contractor has provided to the owner:
(1) The notice and informational form required pursuant to NRS 624.600; and
(2) Any other notices and forms required pursuant to federal, state or local law;
(j) A statement that any additional work to be performed pursuant to the contract, whether or not pursuant to a
change order, which will require the owner to pay additional money and any other change in the terms in the
original contract must be agreed to in writing by the parties and incorporated into the original contract as a
change order;
(k) A plan and scale drawing showing the shape, size, dimensions and the specifications for the construction and
equipment for the residential pool or spa and for other home improvements, and a description of the work to
be done, the materials to be used and the equipment to be installed, and the agreed consideration for the
work;
(l) A notice, in close proximity to the signatures of the owner and the contractor, stating that the owner has the
right to request a bond for payment and performance;
(m) A schedule of payments that meets the requirements of NAC 624.6964;
(n) An agreement by the contractor to provide to each subcontractor or supplier prompt and full payment upon
completion of each stage or phase of construction for the contracted amount of services rendered or materials            supplied; and
(o) A statement that upon satisfactory payment being made for any portion of the work performed, the contractor           shall, in accordance with subsection 3 of NAC 624.6966 and before any further payment is requested or made,
provide to the owner a full and unconditional release from any claim of mechanic’s lien for that portion of the
work for which payment has been made.
3. Is signed by the contractor or a person named on his license.
(Effective 12-17-97)

The law of this state requires a person or entity who enters into a contract to perform construction work be properly licensed by the Nevada State Contractors Board for the category of work that the person or entity intends to perform. Laws regulating licensed contractors are designed to protect the public. If you contract with a person or entity who is not licensed to perform construction work, your remedies against that person or entity may be limited to a suit in civil court. You may be liable for damages arising out of any injuries to an unlicensed contractor or that contractor’s employees, as well as withholding taxes, contributions pursuant to the Federal Insurance Contributions Act and contributions for industrial insurance and unemployment compensation. In addition, you must comply with other applicable state and federal laws regarding employment.

Finally, you should be aware that construction performed on your property must comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes and regulations. A contractor is required to include his license number on all of his advertising, vehicles, bids and contracts. You may contact the Nevada State Contractors Board to find out if a contractor has a valid license and, if so, the status of that license. The Board has complete information on the status of all licensed contractors in the State of Nevada. This information is available through the “voice response system” of the Nevada State Contractors Board. As referenced above, any contractor who works on a residential property is required to provide Residential Recovery Fund disclosures.

1.Request that your contractor supply you with a payment and performance bond, which guarantees completion of your project and payment of the subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials, who work on the project. This payment and performance bond is different from the surety bond that a contractor must file for licensure pursuant to NRS 624.270. A payment and performance bond provides that if the contractor does not complete the project, the bonding company will pay damages up to the amount of the bond. This payment and performance bond, as well as a copy of the construction contract, should be filed with the county recorder for your further protection. There is a fee for a payment and performance bond. This fee is usually equal to between 1 and 6 percent of the amount of the contract, depending on the ability of the contractor to be bonded.

2.Require that payments be made directly to subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials through a mechanism that controls payment for construction. In the area in which you live, services to control the funding of your project may be available, for a fee, to control payment of your contractor by the use of vouchers or other means. These services may also provide you with waivers of liens and other forms of protection.

3.Issue joint checks for payment, made payable to both your contractor and the subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials who were involved in the project or portion of the project for which payment is due and who sent a preliminary or pre-lien notice to you. Those persons or entities have indicated that they may have the right to place a lien on your property, and therefore you need to protect yourself. Making checks jointly payable will help ensure that all persons who are due payment(s) are actually paid.

4.Require your contractor to provide you with unconditional “waiver and release” (lien release) forms, so that when you make a payment on any completed phase of your project, each subcontractor, laborer and supplier of materials involved in that portion of the work for which the payment was made can sign the waiver and release forms. This protects you from liability to them for work for which they have already been paid.
•Some stationery stores sell waiver and release forms if your contractor does not have them. The subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials from whom you obtain releases should be those persons or entities who have filed preliminary or pre-lien notices with you. If you are not certain which subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials are working on your project, you may obtain a list from your contractor. In regard to projects involving improvements to a single-family residence or a duplex owned by an individual, the persons signing these releases lose their right to file a mechanics’ lien against your property. In regard to other types of projects, obtaining such releases may still be important, but may not provide complete protection.

To protect yourself by use of a waiver and release form, you must be certain that all subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials who work on your project sign a waiver and release form. If a mechanics’ lien has already been filed against your property, in most cases the lien can only be released voluntarily by a recorded “release of mechanics’ lien,” which is signed by the person or entity that filed the mechanics’ lien against your property. However, if the person or entity that filed the lien fails to bring an action to enforce the lien in a timely manner, the lien may be removed without voluntary action on the part of that person or entity. You should not make final payment on your project until all mechanics’ liens that are filed against your property have been removed.

TO PROTECT YOURSELF FULLY, YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN ATTORNEY:
1.BEFORE YOU SIGN A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT; OR
2.IF A LIEN IS FILED AGAINST YOUR PROPERTY.
(Added to NAC by Contractors’ Bd., effective 12-17-97)

NAC 624.6932 Informational form regarding contractors. (NRS 624.100, 624.600) The informational form that a general building contractor is required to provide regarding contractors pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection 3 of NRS 624.600 to the owner of a single-family residence with whom he has contracted must be as follows:

Contractors are required by law to be licensed and regulated by the Nevada State Contractors Board. The Nevada State Contractors Board has jurisdiction to investigate complaints that are filed against contractors. Any questions concerning a contractor may be referred to the Board at:

When you enter into a contract, there are certain disclosures that your contractor must provide to you in writing. Disclosures must be provided by

•General contractors
•Residential contractors and
•Swimming Pool and Spa contractors
For residential projects, your contractor may need to provide General
Contractor and Residential Recovery Fund disclosures. The disclosures
are required by law to inform you of your rights as a homeowner.
The disclosures are as follows:

General Contractor Disclosures
NRS 624.600 Required disclosures by general building contractor. A general building contractor shall provide in writing to the owner of a single-family residence with whom he has contracted:

1.The name, license number, business address and telephone number of:
(a) All subcontractors with whom he has contracted on the project; and
(b) All persons who furnish materials of the value of $500 or more to be used in the project.
2.A notice that a person described in subsection 1 may record a notice of lien upon the residence of the owner and any building, structure and improvement thereon pursuant to the provisions of NRS 108.226.
3.An informational form, whose contents must be prescribed by the Board,
regarding:
(a) Contractors pursuant to chapter 624 of NRS; and
(b) Mechanics’ and material-men’s liens pursuant to chapter 108 of NRS.
GENERAL BUILDING CONTRACTORS: REQUIRED DISCLOSURES
NAC 624.693 Informational form regarding mechanics’ and material-men’s liens. (NRS 624.100, 624.600) The informational form that a general building contractor is required to provide regarding mechanics’ and material-men’s liens pursuant to paragraph (b) of subsection 3 of NRS 624.600 to the owner of a singlefamily residence with whom he has contracted must be as follows:

‘NOTICE TO OWNER’

Pursuant to NRS 108.221 to 108.246, inclusive, a contractor, subcontractor, laborer, supplier of materials or other person or entity who:

1.Performs work or furnishes materials of the value of $500.00 or more to improve the value of your property; and
2.Is not paid for the work or materials has a right to place a lien on your property on which the work was performed and to sue you in court to obtain payment.
This means that after a court hearing, your property could be sold by an officer of the court, and the proceeds of the sale would be used to satisfy the amount you owe. If you did not ask for and receive releases of liens from the contractors’ subcontractors, laborers or suppliers of materials, a lien may be placed on your property, or you may be sued even if you have paid your contractor in full.

To preserve their right to file a claim or lien against your property, certain claimants, such as subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials, are each required to provide you with a document called a “preliminary or pre-lien notice.” A preliminary or pre-lien notice is not a lien against your property. Its purpose is to notify you regarding persons or entities who may have a right to file a lien or claim against your property, if they are not paid. To perfect their lien rights, contractors, subcontractors, laborers and suppliers of materials must file mechanics’ liens with the county recorder, which then become recorded liens against your property. Generally, the maximum time allowed for filing a mechanics’ lien against your property is 90 days, after substantial completion of your project.

The following information includes tips you can use when choosing and hiring your contractor. Get at least three bids. Before hiring any contractor, get at least three written bids, or estimates for your project. Provide the contractors with accurate plans or drawings to enable them to determine the scope of work and costs involved. If prices differ by a wide margin, you may consider obtaining additional bids. Beware of any bid, which is substantially lower than others. This may indicate that the contractor has made a mistake or has not included all of the work quoted by other contractors. Ask for references. Ask potential contractors for references in writing. Call the contractor’s previous customers, and ask if they were satisfied with the work. Go out and look at the work for yourself. Hire a licensed contractor. Even licensure cannot guarantee satisfaction. However, a licensed contractor has met experience and examination requirements and must fulfill certain conditions in order to maintain the license. A licensed contractor must have Worker’s Compensation insurance, a bond and have established financial responsibility. This protects you from unnecessary liability. A licensed contractor is regulated by the Nevada State Contractors Board. A licensed contractor who violates the law (Nevada Revised Statute 624) may be disciplined by the Board.

The Contractors Board licenses contractors in several different classifications:
“A” – general engineering contractor
“B” – general building contractor
“C” – specialty contractor (electrical, landscaping, air conditioning, etc.)

Upon licensure, a monetary limit is established for each contractor based on his or her financial ability to maintain and complete contracts up to a certain amount. Contracts written in excess of the established limit are invalid. The type of contractor you hire will depend on the kind of work you want done. For example, if you want only roofing work done, you would hire a contractor who is licensed as a roofing contractor. If the work you want done involves more than two types of work, then you may hire a licensed general building contractor, who will coordinate the appropriate licensed specialty contractors (subcontractors). Before signing a contract, make sure the contractor is licensed in the correct classification and within the appropriate monetary limit. Ask to see the contractor’s “pocket card” that will state the classification for which the contractor is licensed, the license number and the monetary limit. If you have questions as to the validity or status of a license, call the Nevada State Contractors Board. You may also wish to check with the Better Business Bureau in your area to see if any complaints have been filed against the contractor.

A contractor is a person who undertakes or offers to construct, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck or demolish any building or other structure. This includes a subcontractor or specialty contractor but not a material supplier. A contractor also includes a construction manager who performs management and counseling services on a construction project for a professional fee.

As a homeowner, you may need a contractor to do some of the following:
(This is not a complete list)

•  Carpentry •  Fencing •  Landscaping •  Refrigeration
•  Carpet •  Flooring •  Masonry •  Roofing
•  Concrete •  Gas Piping •  Millwork •  Swimming Pool or Spa
•  Drywall •  Heating & Air Conditioning •  Painting •  Tile
•  Electrical •  Insulation •  Plumbing •  Water Heater

The Contractors Board
The Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) is an agency that licenses and regulates contractors throughout the State of Nevada.

The Nevada State Contractors Board is committed to promote the integrity and professionalism of the contracting industry in Nevada. It has the responsibility to promote quality construction by Nevada licensed contractors through a regulatory licensing system designed to protect the health, welfare and safety of the public.

The Board consists of seven members appointed by the governor. Six members are licensed contractors, and one non-contractor is the public representative on the Board.

The NSCB’s staff includes a licensing department that processes and maintains contractors license information and an investigative department that investigates complaints.

Contact the NSCB
As a consumer, you may contact the Nevada State Contractors Board to:

•Check and see if the contractor you are considering is licensed and in good standing in the proper classification and within the monetary limit for which you want to hire
•Check for disciplinary actions
•Get tips on making sure your rights are protected before you enter into a contract
•File a complaint against a licensed contractor
•File a complaint against an unlicensed contractor
•Report unlicensed contracting activity
To check a contractor’s license: Southern Nevada (702) 486-1100
Northern Nevada (775) 688-1141

The Nevada State Contractors Board reminds you to exercise your rights and responsibilities when making home improvements. As a Nevada homeowner, you have the following rights when working with contractors: Hiring a Contractor:  You have the right to hire only licensed contractors and to check the license through the Nevada State Contractors Board at www.nscb.state.nv.us .You have the right to examine a contractor’s past work and to check references .You have the right to get at least three bids from licensed contractors before hiring a contractor Project Payments .You have the right to make payments as work is completed .

You have the right not to pay cash for home improvement projects .You have the right to withhold a final payment until the work agreed upon in the contract is completed Project Paperwork .You have the right to require that the contract include one project price, which includes all labor and materials .You have the right to negotiate a clear contract that includes a written payment schedule and completion date .You have the right to review the contract and only sign it when you understand the terms .You have the right to require your contractor to obtain a building permit for your project Consumer Responsibilities As a consumer, you have these rights, but you also have the responsibility to properly plan and manage your project and insist on your rights Homeowner’s Rights Checklist Know Your Rights and Responsibilities .Read the Home Improvement Bill of Rights Hiring .Hire only licensed contractors .Ask to see the contractor’s official NSCB pocket card .Get at least three written bids from licensed contractors .

Verify that all bids are for the same scope of work .Check contractor’s status with the Nevada State Contractors Board at ww.nscb.state.nv.us .Ask for references and follow up by inspecting the contractor’s completed work The Contract .Negotiate a clear and complete written contract .Insist on specific written descriptions .Look for: (not all of these items are required)  One price for the work to be done Contractor’s license number and monetary limit Specific descriptions of work to be done and materials to be used Start and completion dates An agreement that the contractor will obtain building permits A payment schedule including the down payment amount A “Notices to Owner” regarding lien laws and the Residential Recovery Fund A notice that the contractor carries commercial general liability insurance and the carrier. .Insist that all changes, additions and deletions to the contract are in writing .Create a job management file and keep the written contract, change orders, payment records and all other documents in it Payments .Pay as work is completed according to the contract schedule .Don’t let payments get ahead of the work .Avoid cash payments Subcontractors and Liens .Make a list of all subcontractors and check their licenses with the NCSB .Get lien releases signed by all subcontractors & material suppliers .Keep a record of all material deliveries, dates & progress of work Nevada State Contractors Board Locations  Southern Nevada: Address: 2310 Corporate Circle, Ste 200 Henderson, NV 89074  Phone: (702) 486-1100  Fax: (702) 486-1190  Northern Nevada: Address: 9670 Gateway Drive, Ste 100 Reno, NV 89521  Phone: (775) 688-1141  Fax: (775) 688-1271  Hours of Operation Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm

Working with handyman contractors — The following information is a brief summary for some of the things that you, as a homeowner, can do to avoid costly mistakes and misunderstandings when dealing with a contractor.  If you are considering a home construction, repair, remodel, addition, demolition, electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, landscaping or installing a new pool, you will need a contractor to do the work. In the State of Nevada, that contractor should have a proper contractor’s license for his specific trade.

Licensed contractors have met experience and examination requirements and are required to maintain bonds and workers compensation insurance and have established their financial responsibility; therefore, it is wise to insist that your contractor be licensed. Your home is one of your biggest investments – be aware of your rights and responsibilities when hiring any person to work on it. An informed and prepared consumer is key to a successful project.

Read the Homeowner’s Bill of Rights, obtain a copy by calling (775) 688-1141 or (702) 486-1100.  Take your time before you make a decision about hiring a contractor.  Get at least three bids  Check references  Hire licensed contractors.  Things to Know About the Contract  Get your contract in writing and don’t sign anything until you understand the terms.  You may want a friend, relative or legal counsel to review the contract before you sign it.  Include in your contract specific description of work to be done, materials to be used, total cost of the project, and start and completion dates. The Warning Signs of Unscrupulous Contractor Scams.

Door-to-Door Solicitations  Someone comes to your door offering to fix your roof, re-tile your floor or re-landscape your yard for a reduced price. Once payment is made, little or no work is done and the project is abandoned.   Verbal Agreements  A contractor says that a written contract is unnecessary and promises to do the job with a verbal agreement. He or she takes advantage of the situation to perform shoddy work or no work at all.   High Pressure Sales  An unscrupulous contractor pushes for an immediate decision about work, which makes it impossible for you to get competitive bids, check his license or review references.   Demand for Cash  A contractor demands cash payments, or offers to drive you to the bank to withdraw funds. With money in hand, he or she takes the money and runs.   Scare Tactics  A deceitful contractor offers to perform a free inspection, then claims that bad wiring, bad plumbing or a leaky roof put you in peril. He or she pressures you to agree to over-priced work.

Large Down Payments  A dishonest contractor demands a large down payment to cover supplies and pay workers. On most types of contracts, there is no set amount for a down payment. However, it is a good rule of thumb not to let the payments get ahead of the work. Things You Should Know About  Don’t pay cash.  Include a payment schedule in your written contract.  Don’t let the payments get ahead of the work.  If you have questions, call the Nevada State Contractors Board.  Pay by check.  Obtain receipts for payments  Don’t be a Victim of Unscrupulous or Unlicensed Contractors! Get free information from the Nevada State Contractors Board before you:  Hire a Contractor   Sign a Contract   Pay for Work and Repairs

An owner-builder is a person who owns the property and acts as their own general contractor, and either does the work themselves, or hires licensed subcontractors on the project. An owner-builder is either building or improving his or her residential structure on the property for his or her own occupancy and does not intend to sell or lease the residence within one (1) year. An owner of property who requests an exemption pursuant to NRS 624.031(4) must apply to the Nevada State Contractors Board for an exemption. Should I Hire A Consultant To Oversee The Job  Consultants who contract to direct a project and supervise workers must have a state contractor’s license. Consultants do not take over the legal responsibility for the job. The homeowner still has all responsibility.

The NSCB urges you to only hire licensed contractors to perform work on your property. How Do I Know If My Contractor Is Licensed For The Project  By law, anyone who contracts for or bids on a construction project valued at $500 or more (total labor and materials) must be licensed by the NSCB.  Ask to see the contractor’s pocket license ID card.  Click Here to Verify the license number, or call the Board offices for information.  Owner-Builder Affidavit Of Exemption If you are seeking an exemption from licensure pursuant to NRS 624.031(4), you must complete an Owner-Builder Affidavit of Exemption form, which is also available by calling the Board’s offices at: (702) 486-1100 in Southern Nevada, or (775) 688-1141 in Northern Nevada to request that the affidavit be mailed to you. An owner-builder must also obtain the required signatures and submit the original to the building department with their application for a building permit.  As an owner-builder, you must acknowledge the following obligations and duties:  I may not sell or lease this property. If I sell or lease, or offer to sell or lease the newly built structure within one (1) year after completion, it may be presumed that I have violated the provisions of the exemption and Chapter 624 of NRS.  I may not hire an unlicensed person to act as my contractor, agent or construction manager.

I must directly supervise the construction.  Any subcontractor(s) working on this project must be properly licensed by the Nevada State Contractors Board.   Any person working on my project who is not a licensed contractor must work under my direct supervision and must be employed by me. I must comply with all state and federal laws as an employer in the State of Nevada, including payroll deductions (FICA and Income Tax withholding), provide industrial insurance coverage and pay required unemployment compensation for that employee.  If my project requires the repair, restoration, improvement or construction of a pool or spa, I acknowledge my obligation and duty to comply with the provisions of NRS 624.900 – NRS 624.930 (Inclusive).  I acknowledge that I have received copies of NRS 624.900 – NRS 624.930 (Inclusive) and NRS 278.573  For More Information: Nevada Department of Business and Industry Nevada Division of Industrial Relations     (775) 684-7260   Internal Revenue Service   www.irs.gov   Local Offices:   Southern Nevada: (702) 868-5005 Northern Nevada: (775) 824-2218

1.Hire only licensed contractors. 2.Check the contractor’s license number by utilizing our Online Contractor Search or by contacting the Nevada State Contractors Board: Southern Nevada: Address: 2310 Corporate Circle, Ste 200 Henderson, NV 89074  Phone: (702) 486-1100  Fax: (702) 486-1190  Northern Nevada: Address: 9670 Gateway Drive, Ste 100 Reno, NV 89521  Phone: (775) 688-1141  Fax: (775) 688-1271  Hours of Operation Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm 3.Get three references and review past work. 4.Get at least three bids. 5.Get a written contract and do not sign anything until you completely understand the terms. 6.For pool contracts, pay 10% down or $1,000 – whichever is less, if a deposit is required. 7.Don’t let payments get ahead of the work. Keep a record of all payments. Don’t make a final payment until you are satisfied with the job. 8.Don’t pay cash. 9.Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project. 10.Check the contractor’s record with the Better Business Bureau in your area or visit their website at www.bbb.org

Keeping a detailed “paper trail” can save you money on a Handyman Contractor: The Registrar of Contractors (ROC) annually receives between 11,000 and 13,000 complaints against licensed contractors, approximately 7,000 complaints against people engaged in unlawful contracting practices which includes unlicensed contracting and more than 700 claims filed with the ROC Residential Contractors’ Recovery Fund. Most of these complaints are favorably resolved by our office with little or no cost to either party; however, a percentage of these complaints must be resolved formally by an administrative hearing. The administrative hearing process can be lengthy, expensive and emotionally challenging for everyone involved.

Many of the cases resolved through an administrative hearing could have been resolved more quickly if the customer or the contractor had maintained proper construction documents. Customers should expect and require that standard business practices be followed when having any construction work performed. Making a construction contract, keeping receipts, lien releases and other documents will, many times, avoid the need for an administrative hearing. Reputable contractors expect that these documents will be used. Customers should contact the ROC if the contractor is unable or unwilling to correct any construction problem or to comply with the terms of the construction documents.

One primary purpose of a contract and the associated contract documents is to avoid confusion. Contracts that are clearly understood by all parties have a higher probability for avoiding an administrative hearing and, if an administrative hearing is required, the hearing process is more easily resolved.  The following items, while not all-inclusive, are very common requirements in the construction industry and should be used as a guide when planning a construction project. The following items will greatly assist you in resolving any construction dispute that may occur.