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7 TIPS FOR HIRING A QUALIFIED ROOFING CONTRACTOR

“If you’ve properly maintained and repaired your business’s roof, it should have a long life. However, eventually you will need to repair or replace it. When you do so, you’ll want to ensure you hire a qualified roofing contractor to do the job.

EMC Engineering Services Supervisor Kody Daniel says he has heard horror stories about roofing scams and shoddy workmanship, especially during times of crisis, such as after a hurricane or other severe storm when many homes and businesses suffer extensive damage. At these times, contractors often travel from other areas, and while many are reputable some scammers show up during the chaotic time.

Whether your roof job is an emergency post-storm necessity, or you have planned the project for months, it’s wise to take precautions. Roofing projects are a substantial investment in protecting your building, so you want the job done right the first time.

Kody recommends doing plenty of homework before hiring a contractor:

  • Look at local companies first to vet them through your local Better Business Bureau. You may also want to check with your state attorney general’s office of consumer protection to see if there are any complaints against the company.
  • Ask other business owners. While you’ll want to ask for and call the references the roofing company provides, you can also check directly with other business owners or managers who you trust for contractor recommendations. For example, Kody says he has heard about school superintendents sharing information from district to district about contractors so they get a good feel for the pros and cons of any service under consideration.
  • Prepare a list of questions to ask each potential roofing contractor. Some questions to ask include:
    • If they will provide current proof of insurance (liability and workers’ compensation), bonding and safety records, such as OSHA logs and their company’s experience modification rating.
    • If the company plans to hire subcontractors for some or all of the work. If this is the case, you’ll need the same insurance details for each of the subs.
    • The length of time the company has been in business and whether it has changed owners recently.
    • What continuing education and professional certifications individual contractors have. Check to see if they are involved in local, state or national associations, such as RCI, Inc. or the National Roofing Contractors Association, state or national roofing contractor boards, associations that serve their customers or local chambers of commerce.
    • Ask potential contractors which roofing materials they are certified to install. If you are planning to install a specific product on your roof, also check with the manufacturer to find out who in your area is certified and trained to install that product. Be sure your selected contractor proves their company has plenty of knowledge and experience with the type of roof you will be replacing. For example, if you have a flat roof, select a contractor who understands the different types of membranes and will incorporate appropriate sloping to roof drains.

Next Steps

Once you gather details from and about the contractors, you can begin to get into the specifics of bids and contracts with the best candidates. The next steps include:

  • Request bids or RFPs from several companies. Be sure that the bids put every detail in writing so you can compare prices and ensure the company will follow all your requests. Find a detailed list of items to include in your bid from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. As part of the bid or as a separate detail, ask to see copies of warranties, both from the manufacturer of the materials and on the contractor’s workmanship.
  • Compare the bids, understanding that the low bid is not necessarily the best one. Discuss the ability of each of the contractors to finish the project properly and to meet the commitments in the bid.
  • Sign a contract including all the bid items and be sure the contractor signs too.
  • Be vigilant during the roofing process to ensure that the contractor and subs are fulfilling the requirements laid out in the bid and the contract. Question any part of the process that doesn’t seem correct and examine all work carefully before issuing final payment.”

 

This article was written by EMC

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Car Theft Prevention Tips

Park Safely

The best bet is to keep your vehicle in a locked garage. But for some people, this may not be an option. If you have to keep your vehicle parked outside, start by parking it in your driveway. If your vehicle is front wheel drive, park front end first, and if your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway. This makes it harder to thieves to tow your vehicle. If you have to park in the street, park in a well-lit, highly trafficked area, but make sure you’re following the posted rules. Turning your wheels towards the curb, using your emergency brake, and parking in between other vehicles can also make it harder for your vehicle to be towed away.

When leaving your vehicle, always roll up all your windows and lock the doors, even if you are just leaving it for a few minutes. Also, try to avoid leaving your vehicle unattended for an extended period of time, but if you have to, make sure you park in an attended, well-lit lot.

Theft Deterrents

While locking your vehicle or leaving it in a well-lit area can certainly help prevent auto theft, you may want increase your peace of mind by purchasing an anti-theft device. Many different types are available, and it’s easy to find one that fits your budget and needs. Some of the more common antitheft devices include:

  • Electronic security systems
  • Steering wheel and column locks
  • Ignition kill switches
  • Fuel kill switches
  • Immobilizers
  • Locks for the floor board, gear shift, tires/wheels or hood
  • Vehicle tracking systems

Whatever type of antitheft device you choose, make sure that it is installed properly. Otherwise, you may risk damaging the device or your vehicle. Hire an alarm installation professional to do the work for you. Also, consider etching the vehicle information number (VIN) into different parts on the vehicle, as this makes it easier to trace stolen automobiles/parts.

Common Sense

To protect your automobile from theft, always use common sense. Don’t leave the car running unattended with the keys in the ignition. Don’t hide a spare set of ignition keys in the glove box, or within close proximity to the vehicle. Don’t leave personal identification documents like titles or credit cards in your vehicle. Don’t keep valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. And if you park using a valet, or leave your keys with an attendant, make sure you only leave the key to the vehicle.

If your Vehicle is Stolen

Unfortunately vehicles are stolen all the time in this country. If you become the victim of auto theft contact the police first. Make sure you know as much of the following information as possible:

  • Year, make, model, and color of your vehicle
  • License plate number
  • VIN
  • Approximate time of the theft
  • Location where the vehicle was parked
  • Names of eye witnesses (if there are any)

Next, inform your insurance company that your vehicle was stolen. Have your policy number on hand when you call.

Insure Your Investment

In addition to being confident that you are doing what you can to protect your vehicle; it’s important that you have the right insurance. Not all automobiles are the same and neither are all automobile policies. You need an insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to you when you’re behind the wheel.

Here’s what a new DISTINCTCHOICE Auto policy can offer you:

  • Security and Peace of Mind. Foremost has experience with the kind of insurance you want. Foremost has been in business since 1952 and has a long, solid history of providing superior value to our customers.
  • Coverage Essentials. A Foremost policy provides the coverage you want for your vehicle and the drivers, including medical payments and permissive user.
  • Additional Coverages. A Foremost policy recognizes that every driver is different and offers additional coverages, like loan or lease coverage and rental reimbursement, so you can tailor your policy to fit your lifestyle.
  • Choice of Payment Plans and Deductibles. A Foremost policy offers flexibility, like being able to choose from different deductible levels and payment plans. This allows you to choose when you want to pay and helps make your premium payments affordable.”

This article was written by Foremost Insurance 

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Insurance Terms, Explained

Insurance. A topic most of us might not understand, yet something we all should have.  The first step to making sure you are insured properly is understanding insurance. Anyone can sell you a policy THEY think you need, but who knows you better than you? Take the time to learn about insurance, so instead of an agent telling you what you need, they can assist you in the coverages you already know fit you and your family best.

Check out Safeco’s post below to better understand some of the most common insurance terms, or check out their blog to read more.

Med Pay? PIP? Dec pages? Insurance terms, explained

“With all kinds of different coverages for all kinds of different needs, insurance can be very confusing. And to make it even more challenging, at times it probably seems like insurance websites and policy documents are written in a completely foreign language.

Of course, that’s why we recommend working with an independent agent—someone who is on your side during the process and who can explain everything you need to know.

Even if you do work with an independent agent, however, it’s good to have a little basic knowledge about insurance. Below are definitions for some common terms that will help you understand your coverage a little better.

General insurance terms

  • Actual cash value: This type of coverage pays according to what an item was worth at the time it was damaged—it takes depreciation and wear and tear into account. For example, if you could have sold your couch for about $200 just before it was damaged, that’s the actual cash value, even if a similar new couch would cost $1,000.
  • Actual replacement cost: This pays the amount it would cost to replace a damaged item with a new one (such as the $1,000 couch above). It does not factor in depreciation or wear and tear.
  • Adjuster: A person who works for an insurance company to evaluate losses and settle claims.
  • Additional insured: Someone who is not the policyholder, but is still covered by an insurance policy.
  • Declarations page: This is what creates a contract between you and the insurance company. It describes who owns the policy, what property is covered and for how much, etc.
  • Deductible: The amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if the cost to fix your car is $2,000, but your deductible is $1,000, you would pay $1,000 of the total cost. Typically, a higher deductible means a lower premium.
  • Endorsement: This is a change to your insurance policy’s coverage, usually made through a special form.
  • Exclusion: Something specifically listed in your policy that is not covered by the policy.
  • Liability: Your responsibility for injuries or damage to other people or property. You purchase insurance to protect against liability and other risks.
  • Loss of use: When damage from an accident or other cause prevents someone from being able to live in their home or drive their car.
  • Med Pay (medical payments): This pays for medical expenses for those covered by your policy in the event of an auto accident, regardless of fault. It also covers medical expenses for guests if they are injured on your property, but unless it is a car accident, it usually does not cover injuries someone suffers on their own property.
  • Premium: The amount you pay for an insurance policy.
  • Subrogation: When an insurance company pays a claim, and then seeks damages from a third party who was responsible for causing the damage or loss. For example, your insurance company might pay for your car to be fixed even though an accident wasn’t your fault—and then pursue reimbursement from the person who was at fault.
  • Term: The period of time your insurance policy is in effect, usually six or 12 months.
  • Umbrella: A policy that provides additional liability coverage. It kicks in after your other insurance policies have reached their coverage limits.
  • Underwriting: The evaluation process insurance companies use to determine if they will provide coverage to a customer.

Auto insurance terms

  • Aftermarket parts: Vehicle parts made by a different company than the one that manufactured those originally included with the vehicle.
  • Bodily injury coverage: Covers expenses for physical injuries, such as hospital bills or medical care.
  • Collision coverage: This pays for damage to a vehicle caused by you or someone else covered by your policy.
  • Comprehensive coverage: If your vehicle is damaged by something you could not control, such as fire or a tree falling, comprehensive coverage applies.
  • PIP (personal injury protection): This pays medical expenses for a policyholder or additional insured, and their passengers, if they are hurt in an auto accident, regardless of fault.
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM): Pays for your damages and expenses if another driver is at fault in an accident but does not have enough insurance to cover your costs.

Homeowners insurance terms

  • Additional living expenses: Coverage for expenses above your usual living expenses, such as if you have to stay in a hotel because you can’t live in your damaged home.
  • Catastrophe: A disaster, such as a hurricane or tornado, that impacts a specific area and results in significant damage.
  • Flood insurance: Typically, standard homeowners policies do not provide coverage for flooding—it must be purchased separately.
  • Home contents: These are the things inside your house that aren’t fixed to the structure, such as your furniture, appliances, etc.
  • Peril: A specifically defined risk, such as hail, flooding, wind, etc.
  • Scheduled personal property: Separate coverage for high-value items, such as expensive jewelry, that exceed the limits of your policy or are otherwise excluded.

If something isn’t clear when you’re buying or considering insurance, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Your independent agent is there to help you get the coverage you need—and make sure you understand it, too.”

This article was written by Safeco Insurance 

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How to Drive Safely in Strong Wind and Rain

 

Driving in conditions that involve strong wind or heavy rain can be relatively common and may not be the most pressing safety concern for many drivers, but Travelers safety professionals know that driving in severe weather can significantly increase the risk of a dangerous situation for you, your family and other drivers. Severe weather demands your undivided attention, so be sure to reduce driving distractions by turning the radio down and turning off and stowing your phone to help you keep your attention fully on the road. Keep in mind that sometimes the best decision you can make is to avoid driving altogether and to stay off the road completely until the weather clears.

Driving in Heavy Winds

Wind may not seem like it can present a significant risk, but strong wind deserves special consideration from drivers. Strong wind can occur just about anywhere, but it can be more common in wide open spaces. Areas for concern also include highway overpasses, tunnels and “road cuts” through mountainous areas that can act as funnels for wind. The following tips can help keep you on the road and safe if you encounter heavy winds.

1. Anticipate gusts. Take special care when driving through areas prone to strong winds or when weather reports predict severe weather.

2. Notice larger vehicles. Be aware of large vehicles on the road such as tractor-trailers and recreational vehicles. They are more susceptible to high winds and drivers may have difficulties staying in their lanes.

3. Keep a firm grip on the wheel. Keep both hands on the wheel in case the wind begins to move your vehicle, especially if you are driving a large vehicle or towing a trailer.

Driving in Heavy Rain

In addition to the potentially poor visibility that accompanies most heavy rain, drivers should be ready to protect themselves against hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can occur when a vehicle is traveling too fast in heavy rain conditions, causing the vehicle’s tires to travel on a thin layer of water rather than grip the surface of the road. This has the potential to make steering and braking difficult and could even lead to losing control of your vehicle. Follow these tips to help you stay safe while driving in heavy rain.

1. Take your time. Slow down to help avoid hydroplaning. Also, one of the most dangerous times to drive can be soon after it begins to rain. The rain can cause oils on a roadway to rise to the surface and make conditions slick. Waiting a while after rains begin, rather than rushing to your destination, can be a safer plan when it is raining.

2. Turn your lights on. Turning on your headlights can help you to see more clearly and also helps other vehicles see you. Many states require the use of headlights during rain.

3. Give other vehicles more space. Add 1-2 extra seconds of following time in the rain, which gives you, and the cars behind you, more time to react to traffic.

For more tips on driving in severe weather, click here.

This post was brought to you by Chris Hayes  at Travelers Insurance.

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Umbrella Policy

Why Purchasing a Personal Umbrella Policy is a Wise Decision

Why Purchasing a Personal Umbrella Policy is a Wise Decision

One of the most important insurance policies you can buy is the personal umbrella policy, but many people are unaware they need one. This policy provides high limits of liability to protect you against a catastrophic liability loss. It pays after your homeowners or personal auto policies’ limits have been exhausted. For example, a major car accident in which you severely injure several persons can result in damages easily exceeding your personal auto policy’s liability limits. Losses that result in injuries to numerous people, head injuries, and death are often covered by a personal umbrella policy. In addition to providing higher limits, this policy normally pays for some losses not covered by the underlying policy, such as legitimate allegations concerning libel or slander.

Personal umbrella policies are growing in popularity. In the past, only wealthy individuals and families purchased this coverage. Today, middle-income families also may procure this policy for protection in our society’s increasingly litigious climate. As the tendency to sue for damages rises and awards granted by the courts grow, the personal umbrella policy is increasingly seen as an insurance necessity, rather than a luxury. It is especially attractive because of its relatively low cost.

In particular, you should consider purchasing a personal umbrella policy if you have certain characteristics or engage in certain activities, including the following.

  • Your total assets are greater than your underlying liability limits.
  • You are financially responsible for the actions of a young, inexperienced driver.
  • You live in an exclusive and affluent neighborhood.
  • You have a high profile career or high income.
  • You frequently host guests on your property.
  • Your residence includes a swimming pool.
  • You own waterfront property, a farm, or a ranch.
  • You own watercraft or aircraft.
  • You own numerous rental properties.
  • You engage in extensive international travel for pleasure.

Copyright 2019 International Risk Management Institute, Inc.

Article brought to you by IMT Insurance

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Home Security Systems

If your’re interested in ways to better protect your home and potentially save a few extra dollars on your homeowners insurance, check out Safeco’s  latest article below.

 

“Back in the early days of home security “systems,” around the end of World War I, it was common for homeowners to hire “door shakers”—night watchmen who would literally walk around and check doors to make sure they were locked. The most advanced product at the time, according to the Electronic Security Association, was an alarm system that used electromagnetic contacts on doors and windows and rang a bell if disturbed.

Things are just a little bit different now, thanks to expanding technology and decreasing costs. Regular homeowners now have access to the types of tools and systems that were previously attainable only by celebrities and the wealthy.

It’s especially important to be thinking about security with the increase of online shopping. More packages are being delivered on a regular basis and porch pirates can easily swoop in and snatch your new items.

If you’re into tech, you might even find that getting set up is fun. And if you’re into saving money, many companies offer insurance discounts for having specific home-monitoring systems, so check your policy or ask an agent for details.

Here’s a rundown of some of the options you have to protect your home, from all-in-one systems to separate components for do-it-yourselfers.

Full-service systems
There are a number of companies that offer full-service security systems with central monitoring—and the list is growing, with cable and wireless companies (Xfinity, AT&T, etc.) getting into the mix more prominently along with familiar names such as ADT and Brinks. These systems can feature video surveillance, remote access, smoke and carbon-monoxide detection, even medical alerts in case you have an emergency. Many now offer home-automation tools so you can control lighting, heating, cooling and other appliances when you’re away from home.

Most systems also can be configured to send you alerts via text message—so you know when the kids have gotten home from school safely, for example.

Full security systems such as these often have installation costs, along with equipment fees and monthly bills, of course. But if you don’t feel tech-savvy enough to install your own system, you don’t want to deal with the hassle, or you want something with central monitoring, a full system might be right for you.

Do-it-yourself options
If you’d rather set up your own system, many companies offer starter packs with a few components to get you going, allowing you to add what you need and exclude what you don’t. Some provide security features without much in the way of home automation, while others can serve as the hub for a connected home—it’s up to you.

You can create your own custom security system through the use of individual products, too, although you’ll want to ensure everything works together. Here are some of the options on that front:

Smart cameras and sensors
Installing cameras used to mean dealing with bulky equipment and yards of wiring. Today, cameras are unobtrusive, wireless and capable of much more than previous models. Many are combined with floodlights or doorbells and use motion activation, saving data-storage space and battery power by recording only when there’s a reason to record. Some can send live feeds to you remotely when motion is detected, too. One startup even has motion sensors that don’t use infrared light—instead, they look for disturbances in the wireless signals that bounce around throughout your home.

Keyless entry systems
Even items as basic as the locks on your doors have undergone revolutionary changes. You might not think you need an entry system that relies on a code, or a smartphone, but they can come in very handy at times. Say, for example, you need to let a trusted repairman into your home while you’re away, but you don’t want to risk hiding a key outside. With a keyless system (or a hybrid version that uses both keys and codes), you simply provide a temporary code for the repairman to use.

Home automation
Have you ever forgotten to leave a light on while you’re away? Burglars thrive in the dark, and lights both inside and outside your home, along with noise from TVs, radios, etc., can be powerful deterrents. Thankfully, you can have more control than ever—from anywhere in the world. And just like some professionally installed systems or do-it-yourself starter packages, many individual components tie in home-automation features as well.

Of course, there are still some classic tools and techniques you can use to deter crime, no matter how tech-savvy you are: Don’t broadcast on social media when you’re going to be on vacation or away for the night. Keep valuables out of plain sight. Make sure your windows and doors are locked. And don’t forget the security system that will love you back—a watchdog!”

 

Article written by Safeco 

To find out more about Safeco Insurance call our office at 563-383-5555

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Claim Tips

Filing a claim can be overwhelming, check out Foremost’s article on tips for effectively filing a claim, so your prepared for the unexpected.

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Teen Drivers

Have you ever added a teen driver to your auto policy and been shocked at the increase of your premium? There are many factors as to why adding a teen driver to your policy can be quite pricey. Check out Safeco Insurance’s blog post below to read more about what could be causing your price to jump up.

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Full Coverage vs. Liability

Full Coverage vs. Liability

Are you in the market for auto insurance but can’t decide between full coverage or liability only? Or, maybe you’re still trying to decide what the difference is between the two. Fear not, below I have lightly explained some of the simplest ways full coverage and liability insurance differ.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is required by law when owning a vehicle and will only cover damages you’ve caused to somebody else. For example, if you get into an accident and you are found at fault and legally liable, you are expected to cover any bodily injury and property damage you have caused. If you are properly insured your insurance carrier should cover the damages incurred. However,  another thing to keep in mind is your liability limits. The liability limits you choose is the maximum amount your insurance carrier is liable to pay if you are found at fault in a covered accident.

As an example, If you choose to carry the state minimum liability limits, 20/40/15 in the state of Iowa, your insurance is only responsible to cover property damage up to $15,000. If you were to total a car with these liability limits and the property damages you’ve incurred are $50,000, you are now responsible to pay for the remaining $35,000 of property damages. The same rule applies when dealing with bodily injury coverages. An important thing to note about liability coverage is that it does not cover damages to your own vehicle.

Full Coverage

Having full coverage on your car is an optional coverage if you own your vehicle. If you are leasing or purchasing a new car with a loan, full coverage is then required from the dealership or your loss payee.

When choosing full coverage you have the option to pick your deductible, most common being the $500 deductible for both comp & collision. Having a $500 deductible means that before your insurance will pay out for any damage done to your vehicle, you are required to pay the stated $500 deductible first. Full coverage is the only coverage that will pay for damages done to your vehicle if you were to get into an accident or have a comprehensive claim such as, hail or theft. While full coverage is the costliest of coverages it is an option that should be considered when determining which coverages are best for you.

When picking your auto insurance coverages make sure you are with an agent/insurance company that will help you better understand the options you have available to you. Understand what you are getting and what is being covered.

 

Disclaimer: information provided in this article is meant to give a rough explanation between full coverage and liability only. Every accident is different with numerous circumstances. How an insurance company will cover an accident varies.  

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Choosing the Best Contractor

Are you in the market for a contractor? Trying to choose the right one can be overwhelming. Progressive made it simpler by supplying you with questions to ask to ensure you hire the right contractor for you!

— Check out Progressive’s article below on questions to ask when choosing a contractor or visit their website for yourself!

 

10 questions to ask when choosing a contractor

Ensure the right fit by interviewing general contractors about these topics that go beyond the basic

Homeowners starting their first remodeling project have to make their way through what can be an overwhelming amount of information and decision making. One of the first and most important decisions is selecting an architect or designer to design the project and a general contractor to build it. Homeowners often interview potential contractors but are at a loss for what to ask aside from the obvious questions about licenses, bonds and insurance. Here are a few more questions to help you with your selection.
Contemporary Exterior Contemporary Exterior

1. How is your company structured?

General contracting businesses can be organized in a number of ways. Understanding who owns the company and who is assigned to tasks will give you an idea of the company’s capacity to handle paperwork, manage your project and provide you with the service you expect.

2. Who from your company will be at my house each day?

This could be a company owner for a few hours or the whole day, or a lead carpenter or superintendent full time, or a lead carpenter plus a project manager for several hours a week. Understanding staffing will help you get a handle on how job security will be handled and how much attention your project will get from staff at the jobsite and in upper management. It’ll also help you understand the skill level of those involved.

3. How do you handle scheduling?

This is an open-ended question that can cover everything from how the contractor schedules staff and subcontractors to how a schedule is communicated to you. Many contractors use a task-based schedule with a start and end date to schedule not only your project, but the project that is scheduled after yours. Having a copy of this will help set expectations about sequencing and help you understand when material decisions will need to be made.

4. Who will communicate with me once the project starts?

In some companies the same person who makes the initial visit and estimates your project is also the person who performs the work. In others there may be separate salespeople, estimators, project managers, superintendents and a crew of carpenters who perform the work onsite. Understanding how information about your project is handed off from one employee to another or kept track of by a single employee or owner is important. Know how the company works so you can compare it to others and select the one whose system best aligns with your needs.

5. Is my project the kind you like to do?

This is a great question that very few people ask. The answer will tell you if your project is larger or smaller than typical for the company and if it has processes in place to manage your project well. Management of kitchen and bath projects is different than management of other projects. Some companies specialize just in kitchens and baths, and some are set up for projects of all sizes. Knowing you will get full attention from the contractor for your project — whatever the size — is essential.

6. Deal-breaker questions

Will you let me do part of the work? Can you leave the bath unfinished? Will you let me supply all of the materials?

If you want any of these or other things that don’t leave the contractor in control of the materials and able to complete the project in its entirety, make sure you discuss it up front. Many contractors will take on projects only for which they do all the work from start to finish, but some are more flexible. Go down this path very carefully so you are clear about what the contractor is and is not finishing.

7. What do you subcontract?

Things vary by state, but usually a licensed subcontractor does work that is limited to one or two trades, while general contractors can have their own staffs and subcontract out to other companies for some work. Knowing what work the contractor will do with his or her own forces and with subcontractors will give you a sense of how the contractor runs the business and the skills the employees will bring to your project. Check with your state licensing board for specifics about contractor licenses in your area.

8. How many projects do you have going at one time?

Generally, the more employees a company has, the more projects it will be able to run concurrently. Asking this question will open up a conversation about the number of employees the company has and how multiple ongoing projects are handled. A follow-up question is, Will the person assigned to manage your project be managing other projects at the same time?

9. What can I expect at the end of the project in the way of paperwork and lien releases?

The final paperwork generally does include lien releases, final permit sign-offs and some information about warranties. It can also have as-built drawings showing mechanical locations, photos of the interior of the home before insulation is installed, manuals for installed equipment and a complete list of subcontractors on the project. Ask about this in advance so you know what you will receive and if you’ll need to track something down or document something yourself.

10. Do you have any concerns about what we have planned, or think something might be a problem once we get started?

This question will give you immediate feedback about the feasibility of what you want to do, and if there are any parts of the project that are obvious unknowns with price tags that cannot be easily estimated. Contractors might home in on questions about your existing house and structural system or have some useful feedback about design. Either way, it will yield useful information about what to expect as you move forward.

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