Finding A Contractor In Portland Oregon

A Contractor in Portland Oregon must be licensed, insured and bonded. Click on this Hubpage to find out more You can own this search engine position,blog and all. This means going through paper work and finally writing an exam which must be passed in order to be accepted.

It is very important that a homeowner uses a licensed contractor in Portland Oregon. Homeowners lose the ability to recover damages through the bond as well as the CCB Dispute Resolution Service if they use an unlicensed contractor. Don't take the chance of getting in trouble because of trying to cut corners and always check the contractors license.

Why check a contractor's license? The Construction Contractors Board (CCB) believes the best way to a successful home improvement, repair or new home project is to know your contractor. Checking a contractor's license can tell you:

* The contractor is actively licensed and has a surety bond;

* The contractor submitted proof of liability insurance at the time of application and insurance renewal*;

* The contractor submitted information that they carry Workers' Comp Insurance to protect its workers on the project;

* Breach of contract complaints filed with the CCB in the past seven years.

* CCB disciplinary actions against business in the pasts seven years

Here are the most common mistakes Homeowners make when hiring a contractor in Portland Oregon.

1. Automatically accepting the lowest bid. The contractor may have missed some items. A higher bid may be worth the price in better materials, workmanship and reliability.

2. No written contract.

A written contract protects you and the contractor. It is required that all construction agreements be committed to a written contract if the price exceeds $2000. All agreements, including all changes to the contract, should be in writing.

3. Not checking the contractor's license.

A license is required for any construction business that advertises, offers, bids, or performs any construction, home improvement, remodeling or repair work.

4. Not checking references.

Check with previous customers. Were they satisfied with the work? Was the work finished on time? Did the contractor return phone calls? If the person had problems with the contractor, ask how the contractor responded to complaints. If you cannot visit any of the contractor's jobsites in Portland Oregon then ask for pictures.

For your protection – Contracts should be as detailed as possible. Some items to include are materials and costs, permits, estimated start and completion dates, debris removal, and arbitration clauses. Here are some pointers to assure a solid contract.

*Read and understand your contract before signing it – Don't be pressured into signing your contract without taking the time needed to go through it. Make sure it includes enough details to avoid misunderstandings and to protect you and your property.

*Special Note on Liens – Subcontractors and material suppliers that work on your project are often paid by the general contractor. If a general contractor fails to pay, the subcontractor may file a lien on your property. For information on construction liens, visit the CCB's Consumer

*A Payment Schedule – should be included in the contract. Stick to the schedule and never pay in full for a project before the work is complete.

Your remodel or addition doesn't have to be a nightmare. I have done plenty of jobs over the last 30 years and most of my customers are dear friends. Remember that a well respected contractor in Portland Oregon will have a proven track record. Trust your intuition and gut feeling when the initial introduction is made either through a referral or other means.