Why should my contractor provide me a certificate of insurance before starting work?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document provided by [...]
Do I Need A Formal Written Contract When I Hire A Contractor?
Whether it is something you want, don’t want or are not sure if you need, it is the legal responsibility of a licensed contractor, doing work within the five boroughs of New York City, to provide their clients a contract when providing a home improvement service. When discussing your project with a contractor, they should follow up with a written estimate, which clearly states their business name, physical street address, phone number and NYC Home Improvement Contractors license number.
Is it possible to soundproof the rooms in my home?
Our lives are filled with noise; at work, at home and even outdoors. With all the loud noises that surround us each day, it is no wonder we can't wait to escape it all. Noise disturbs our sleep, adds to our stressful lives and infringes on our privacy. Whether it be the sound of phones ringing, construction, traffic, airplanes flying overhead, or music, it seems that noise is everywhere.
What are the implications of hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor?
You have saved for years preparing for your home remodeling [...]
What precautions should my contractor take to protect my family during the COVID pandemic?
Over the last few months our top priorities have been keeping ourselves and our families safe. We are all maintaining social distancing, wearing masks, limiting trips to the store and staying away from our friends and family, all in an effort to avoid exposure to COVID-19. While we are all adhering to these new rules of engagement, it is important to continue protecting ourselves when we have to open our homes to repairmen, service providers and contractors.
What is a Home Improvement Contractor?
From the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs
New York City’s Home Improvement Business Law defines a contractor as anyone who “owns, operates, maintains, conducts, controls or transacts a home improvement business” and “undertakes or offers to undertake or agrees to perform any home improvement or solicits any contract therefor,” whether or not the contractor is a prime contractor or subcontractor.
What Are The Signs That There May Be Mold In My House?
Most commonly, mold is found in moist areas of your home. It can be behind walls, in the basement, under the carpet, in bathrooms, or in your attic. It can even grow in your mattresses or under your kitchen sink. There are hundreds of types of molds that can be found growing in your home, affecting the environment and your family’s health.
The Do’s and Don’t of Remodeling Your Home
Do check to see if you need a permit. If you begin a large remodeling project only to find out you needed a permit, you can find yourself paying hefty penalties, having a “stop work order” placed on your property by the Department of Buildings (DOB) or worse…
Important Questions That Homeowners Overlook When Interviewing Contractor
Finding the perfect contractor isn’t as difficult as you may [...]
If you think It’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur.
Homeowners beware! It is the time of year when unlicensed, [...]