Below, we explain how to evaluate contractor proposals and help ensure you receive a fair, accurate, and comprehensive bid.

What Homeowners Should Look for in a Fair and Accurate Contractor Proposal

Scope of Work

One of the most important things to look for in a bid or proposal is a well-defined scope of work. The bid should specify exactly what tasks will be completed, what materials will be used, and who is responsible for each part of the job. Vague descriptions like “install fixtures as needed,” or “materials TBD” are red flags that leave room for misinterpretation later.

Accurate Pricing

A fair bid will include accurate, up-to-date pricing. Material and labor costs should reflect and itemize current market rates and all expenses such as permit fees, equipment rentals and disposal. An honest contractor will also include a reasonable contingency for unexpected issues as well.

Time Frames

A clear timeline, with anticipated start and finish dates and key milestones helps homeowners track, progress and hold their contractors accountable. Additionally, a professional proposal should include a payment schedule that aligns with work completed. It should not demand large sums prior to any work beginning.

Licensing, Insurance and Warranty

Lastly, the bid should reference the contractor’s license and insurance coverage, and include warranty terms for workmanship and materials.

What to Watch Out For

Not all contractor bids are created equal, and it’s important to spot these warning sins of a potentially risky proposal.

Lack of Detail

When a bid is vague or incomplete, it’s difficult to assess what’s actually included and what might become an unexpected charge later on.

Overly Complex Language

Overly complex or legalistic language that seems designed to confuse rather than clarify is another concern.

Lowball Pricing

If one contractor proposal comes in significantly lower than others, it’s often because something critical is missing, like site prep, permit fees, or code compliance. These omissions can lead to expensive change orders mid-project.

Large Upfront Payments

Be cautious if the contractor asks for a large upfront payment prior to beginning the project. Payments should be scheduled and correspond with milestones throughout the project. Asking for cash payments could be another red flag.

No References

If a contractor refuses to provide references or examples of past work, it’s a sign to move on.

How Först Consulting Group Can Help Ensure a Fair and Accurate Contractor Proposal

Först Consulting Group offers professional construction contract review services to help homeowners in the Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC region make informed, confident decisions before signing a contract. Our team examines every part of a proposal to ensure the scope, pricing, and terms are complete and clearly stated. We help identify discrepancies between bids, clarify confusing language, and point out anything that could post a risk, whether financial, legal, or structural.

We have deep expertise in construction standards, code compliance, and defect investigation, and offer insights that go far beyond a surface-level review. We act as your advocate in the process, helping you avoid unnecessary costs, poor workmanship, or legal issues down the road.

Choosing a contractor is a big decision. Let Först Consulting Group make sure you do it right.

Contact us today to see how we can help.

The post Contractor Bid Reviews: Ensuring Fair and Accurate Proposals appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

VA SB121 New Exemptions on Contractor Licensing Requirements

Taken directly from the Virginia Legislative Information System, VA SB121 states that the “Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), Board for Contractors, exempted from the ‘licensure requirements for contractors’ any work undertaken by a person providing construction, remodeling, repair, improvement, removal, or demolition valued at $25,000 or less per project on behalf of a properly licensed contractor. Current law provides this exemption to such work valued at $5,000 or less per project.”

The Dangers of Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor

Lack of Experience

There are potential risks involved should you choose to engage an unlicensed contractor. They may lack the necessary training, experience and expertise to complete the project to industry codes and standards. This could lead to subpar workmanship, faulty installations or incomplete or abandoned projects, resulting in additional expenses for repairs.

An unlicensed contractor may not abide by industry codes and regulations, or be held accountable to regulatory bodies that oversee practices and compliance. You may not be able to hold the contractor liable for compensation or resolution through the legal system.

Financial Liability

An unlicensed contractor could expose you to legal and financial liabilities. Licensed contractors usually carry liability insurance, which protects homeowners in case of accidents, injuries or property damage during the project. Without this insurance, you may be vulnerable to covering these costs.

Permits

Additionally, an unlicensed contractor may not be well versed in the permitting requirements, and without proper permits, your project could be subject to fines, forced removals or difficulties selling the property in the future.

How to Check if a Contractor is Licensed in Virginia

To check if a contractor is licensed in Virginia, utilize the online resources provided by DPOR. It maintains a user-friendly online database. Navigate to the “License Lookup” or “License Verification” section to enter the contractor’s name, business name or license number.

The database will provide details about the contractor’s licensure status, including their name, business name, expiration date, and any applicable classifications or endorsements. It may also offer information about any disciplinary actions, complaints or violations. You may also contact DPOR by phone for specific inquiries or concerns.

Contractor’s Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Prior to passing of VA SB121, individuals in Virginia legally allowed to perform building or remodeling contracting work for projects less than $5,000 were commonly referred to as “handymen.”

DPOR differentiates between projects that require a license, and those that do not. Handymen typically engage in small-scale, minor repairs, maintenance and tasks that don’t substantially alter the structure of systems of a building. These projects fall below a certain threshold in terms of complexity and value. While handymen can perform smaller tasks without a contractor’s license, it is advisable to choose individuals with relevant experience, skills and a solid track record of successful projects.

For more substantial projects, alterations to structural components or major electrical, plumbing or HVAC work, DPOR may require a contractor’s license.

There are different levels of licensing based on the complexity and scope of projects. These classifications ensure that contractors are appropriately matched to projects that align with their expertise and capabilities. Additionally, specialty license can be issues for specific trades or services, such as electrical, plumbing or HVAC work.

• Class A License – the highest level, required for contractors whose projects exceed a certain value threshold, including commercial and residential work. Class A contractors can undertake projects of any size and complexity.
• Class B License – typically covers medium-sized projects in construction and remodeling work up to a certain threshold value.
• Class C License – intended for contractors handling smaller construction and remodeling projects, both residential and commercial.

How Can Homeowners Protect Themselves?

Protecting yourself against building or remodeling contractors requires proactive steps and strategies to mitigate potential risks.

Background Research

Before entering into an agreement, check the contractor’s background and work history. Request references from previous clients and contact them.

Written Contract

Insist on a written contract outlining all project details, including scope of work, timeline, materials, and costs. It should specify that the contractor is responsible for obtaining necessary permits.

Insurance

Ask for proof of liability insurance and verify its validity.

Payments

It is advisable to avoid paying for the full project up front. A reputable contractor, licensed or not, typically follows a payment scheduled tied to project milestones. This incentivizes the contractor to complete the work to your satisfaction before final payments are made.

Hire a Consultant

Consider hiring a third-party inspector or consultant, like Först Consulting Group. They can oversee the project’s progress and quality to ensure the work is done to industry standards. Key advantages of hiring a consult include their expertise and experience in construction and remodeling practices, ability to provide an objective evaluation, and assistance in communication and negotiation with contractors.

If needed, consultants have access to a network of professionals including engineers, architects and legal experts who can provide specialized assistance.

Be Vigilant

Be vigilant and attentive, and regularly inspect work as it progresses. Address any concerns promptly and seek resolution in a professional manner. If disputes arise, a consultant like Först can help negotiate settlements or represent you, as the homeowner, in a legal case as an expert witness.

Contact Först Consulting Group

For assistance with hiring, monitoring or managing an unlicensed contractor, contact Matthew Furlong at Först Consulting Group.

The post Buyer Beware when Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor Under New Virginia Bill appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

• The contractor was not licensed or qualified to perform as a general contractor in Virginia;
• The contractor started work on the home, abandoned the project and left the work in seriously deficient and incomplete condition;
• The contractor left live wiring exposed, holes in the house open to wildlife and elements, and the house without heat or air conditioning;
• The contractor attempted to charge the homeowners in excess of $36,500.00 for extra work; and
• Work was so deficient that demolition and reconstruction will likely be required to bring the project into compliance.

The Project

The original contract between the homeowners and the contractor called for a scope of work described as interior alterations of the first and second floor, a second story master bedroom addition above an existing garage, and a new kitchen addition. It included relocation of the HVAC system and kitchen, new flooring for the addition and bathrooms, and a full remodel of three bathrooms, with complete framing, plumbing and mechanical.

Demolition began approximately one week after Fairfax County approval, and approximately two weeks later, the contractor ceased work in the middle of construction, claiming that certain scopes of work, such as plumbing due to changes in the new plans, were not included in the contract.

Not knowing exactly what to do next, yet understanding that they needed outside help to assist in resolution, the homeowners turned to Matthew Furlong to be their homeowners’ advocate.

Först’s Findings

Following completion of a forensic inspection (“investigation”) of the construction issues, Furlong was retained to render a preliminary opinion regarding:

• The property’s condition;
• Evaluation of overall construction work;
• Building code compliance assessment;
• Deviations from recognized industry standards;
• Best practice for product installations provided by the contractor; and
• Breached requirements due to poor workmanship, improper product installations, and/or failure to complete the project.

After a thorough review and analysis that included review of the building plans, visual surveys, physical measurements, site conditions, and searches for defects, observations were recorded and an opinion was rendered.

Investigation Results: Construction Deficiencies Found

Missing slab reinforcement

The following issues were among the construction deficiencies discovered, and available for use in the case against the contractor:

Plumbing Deficiencies

• Rough-in plumbing not installed below the concrete slab and before prep work for kitchen, laundry or bathroom. Consequently, all prep work must be removed.

Building Code Violations

• In most cases, the contractor failed to meet basic minimum building code standards, and failed to follow manufacturer’s installation instructions will all installed products that were inspected

Inferior Execution

• Construction failed to conform to industry standards and approved design plans

Foundation Deficiencies

Footer thickness error

• Footer depth does not conform to frost protection code requirements

• Missing slab edge insulation
• Inadequate slab base
• Slab reinforcement missing required support
• Concrete reinforcement was placed directly on grade
• Footer thickness was 8” thick when design plans required a footer thickness of 12”

Licensing & Contracts

• Contractor claimed to possess a Virginia Class A Contractor’s License, but was licensed to perform only trade plumbing, gas, and HVAC work
• Contractor listed the homeowner as the contractor in order to obtain required building permits, without knowledge or agreement of the homeowner
• Contractor claimed significant changes in the scope of work and requested an additional $36,500.00 to proceed. Findings showed that only minor changes were required, and were not considered substantial or “Macro Changes” as claimed by the contractor.

Construction debris and exposed wiring

Construction Dispute Findings & Recommendations

As a result of the contractor’s conduct, the property was deemed not habitable and in a condition that can be described as dangerous. Results included:

• Several uncapped and exposed live electrical wires;
• Large debris piles throughout the house;
• Partially-demolished kitchen and bedroom; and
• Holes in exterior wall that allowed birds to enter the home.

Upon forensic investigation, it was Furlong’s opinion that the homeowners were overcharged, that the work was deficient and incomplete, and that the contractor owed a refund back to the homeowners.

The project showed ominous signs of serious neglect, basic and fundamental installation techniques were ignored, and approved plans were not followed. The contractor did not execute the project with a reasonable level of knowledge, quality, efficiency, or in a workmanlike manner, and left several work scopes seriously deficient and incomplete.

Partially-demolished bathroom

The gas supply for the house and furnace, and the outdoor air conditioning unit were disconnected since construction began, risking burst water pipes in winter, and possible microbial growth in summer. The home is not sellable or habitable in its current condition and will require additional time and expense to correct issues.

Furlong also estimated that less than $20,000.00 in work had been performed against the advanced sum paid by the homeowners of $20,000.00, and an additional $24,000.00 in work would be required to correct the deficient work. A refund to the homeowners of at least $20,000.00 was recommended.

Construction Dispute? Rely on your Homeowners’ Advocate in Först Consulting Group

If you have issues with a contractor or construction disputes, there is an advocacy resource to turn to: Först Consulting Group. From Construction Contract Review, to Construction Defect Inspections, to Litigation Support, Först is here to help.

For more information, or to discuss your options on resolving a construction dispute, contact Först Consulting Group.

The post Construction Dispute Case Study in Fairfax, VA appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Contractor Licensing

The letters behind Matthew’s name indicate the classifications of licenses he has acquired.

• CBC: Commercial Building Contractor. This designates “individuals whose contracts include construction, remodeling, repair, improvement, removal, or demolition on real property owned, controlled, or leased by another person of commercial, industrial, institutional, governmental, and accessory use buildings or structures.”
• RBC: Residential Building Contractor. This designates “individuals whose contracts include construction, remodeling, repair, improvement, removal, or demolition on real property owned, controlled, or leased by another person of dwellings and townhouses, as defined in the USBC, including accessory buildings or structures on such property.”

See more about Matthew’s certifications and accreditations.

Types of Advocacy Services

Some of the terminology used in the construction field may not be familiar, so here are descriptions of some of the services we offer in more detail.

Forensic Engineering

“Forensic engineering is the application of engineering principles to the investigation of failures or other performance problems” in construction, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers. In this role, Matthew Furlong collects evidence in order to make an official assessment of the cause of a structural failure, like a deck collapse, for example. He looks for failures in design, structures, materials and components to assess construction errors, property or economic loss, and injuries or death resulting from these failures.

Forensic investigations can be related to construction defects, building code compliance, contract review and analysis, construction delay analysis, and construction injury investigation. It can include pathologies of design or material deficiencies, structural capability, specification errors, workmanship errors, external or environmental factors, deterioration and improper use.

The goal of forensic engineering is to discover the cause of the failure or establish the chain of causation. This evidence is crucial in the prosecution and defense of a legal case concerning breach of contract, product liability, health and safety violations, and tort claims. It can also involve testimony on these findings in a court of law.

Scientific Investigations

In a scientific investigation, Matthew Furlong applies systematic and constructed scientific methods to obtain, analyze and interpret data surrounding a construction claim. Using his specialized training and high-technology equipment, he can identify and confirm construction defects that could be caused by contractor errors, design flaws or materials failure both inside and outside a home or building. It can include building pathology, safety and code violations, home energy performance, infrared thermography, and issues with stucco application, siding, insulation, ventilation, vapor barriers, and moisture maintenance.

Since buildings can suffer from latent defects (not seen by the naked eye) or patent defects (can be seen), various testing methods are utilized. Risks of failures are also taken into consideration.

Technical Report Writing

Every service provided requires documentation, which Matthew Furlong provides in the form of detailed reports of findings, along with proof that includes photographs, images, code requirements and violations, cost correction estimates, and more. This provides the evidence needed to resolve a construction dispute or for defense in litigation.

Expert Witness Testimony

Matthew Furlong has completed more than 600 homes and custom projects, with experience ranging from high-end new custom homes, interior renovations and additions, to energy efficient and green homes, historic renovations, timber framing, and elaborate custom interiors in estate-sized homes. He has decades of experience with new construction and remodeling, design, project coordination, field inspections, and job-site health. This makes him uniquely qualified to testify as an expert on construction matters. His relevant opinions and advice provide both the consumer and the legal community with a trusted resource for litigation support and expert witness testimony.

Trust Matthew Furlong for Construction Advocacy

Först Consulting Group provides expertise as an advocacy resource on construction issues and disputes. To learn more about the services we provide, visit our website, or contact us at 703-268-8699.

The post Meet Matthew Furlong, CBC, RBC appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Modern skylights are manufactured, sized and installed better than ever before, thus minimizing many of the problems of skylights in years past. However, they still create a weak point in your home’s exterior. Here are some of the problems most common with skylights and some tips on how to prevent issues from occurring.

Water Leakage

Wear and tear after years of rain, snow and temperature changes can lead to water leakage around a skylight. Rubber gaskets, seals and sealants, adhesives and flashing can also age under weather conditions and potentially fail, causing water leaks. Proper installation and flashing are critical to preventing water problems. Reflashing and resealing may help solve a water leak.

Condensation

Condensation can naturally occur with a variance between outside and inside temperatures, and is one of the most common problems with skylights. It can also occur from moisture inside the home. Vapor condensation should not be ignored, as it can lead to mold buildup. The use of a ventilating system should help. When installing new skylights, choose energy-efficient models. Pay special attention to the insulation and sealing on the skylight’s underside. There should be enough insulation and roofing felt between the skylight frame and the opening to prevent moist air flow from inside the room from saturating the flashing or cladding undersides and condensing to drip back into the room below. Bathrooms are particularly known for humid conditions and are not the best rooms in which to add a skylight.

Related: US Department of Energy, Energy Saver Design Report on Skylights

Drainage Issues

Since skylights are on the roof and not easily accessible, they can become subject to an accumulation of leaves, snow or debris that can block normal drainage routes, condensation channels and weep holes from rain and snow runoff. Perform regular inspections of the flashing and cladding, and clear skylights of accumulations.

Fading

Skylights can allow in up to 3x the amount of light that comes from your side windows. This can cause fading of furniture, bedding, carpets and floors. Choose skylight models that come with light-filtering retractable blinds to help regulate the amount of light entering your home.

Ice Dams

Roof ventilation is especially important to a healthy home, and one of the problems with skylights is that they can allow heat loss through to the roof that causes snow to melt and refreeze, thus creating an ice dam.

Related: Skylights Pros and Cons: Are They Worth the Money?

Heat Loss and Overheating

Be careful how you position your skylight, especially if it will be on a sunny side of your home. Because it allows in so much light, it can add to interior heat (which can help heat the home during winter months). Conversely, a skylight can also allow heat to escape from your home in colder months. Choose an energy-efficient, insulated skylight, and consider using skylight covers to help control heat. Look at the solar heat gain coefficient number (SHGC). The lower numbers mean that the skylight will block more solar heat from entering.

Problems with Skylights? Call Först Consulting Group.

When you are experiencing problems with skylights, need a skylight inspection, or want to know more about construction practices with skylights, contact Först Consulting Group. One of our specific services is home inspections. We can provide building pathology inspections to look for building defects such as skylight failures, and construction error inspections that prove faulty building practices to help support your claim against your contractor. We also offer associated remedies for remediation and repair, along with associated costs.

As construction experts, Först Consulting Group offers a variety of services for construction defect investigations, litigation support and expert testimony. Contact Först today.

The post The Problems with Skylights appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Homeowner Estate Management Maintenance Services

Forst Consulting Group’s dedicated team will perform a number of estate management maintenance services to ensure that your property is safe and sound while you are not in residence and that your property is kept up to homeowner association standards. Some of the maintenance services we offer include:

• Walking your property inside and out to look for damage, signs of tampering, or maintenance issues. We’ll check all windows, doors and garage doors for security.
• Checking security cameras and lighting to ensure they are working properly and replacing bulbs that may have burned out
• Mowing the lawn and trimming bushes to maintaining the property
• Shoveling snow
• Clean up following storms
• Maintaining outdoor fixtures like a pool or hot tub
• Watering indoor plants

If we do find that an issue has arisen, like a burst pipe or fallen tree limb, for example, we will take action immediately. We will notify you of the problem and can act on your behalf to resolve the issue. We maintain a resource of trusted service companies who are on call as needed who can provide repairs.

See our related post: Forst Will Watch Your House While You’re Away

Homeowner Convenience Services

Forst Consulting Group also offers a number of convenience services for homeowners while they are away. They include, but are not limited to the following:

• Picking up the mail and/or packages
• Forwarding the mail or packages
• Arranging for pet sitters
• Arranging for and monitoring maintenance, repairs or service appointments
• Scheduling lights on timing units to act as if someone is home
• Cleaning the home
• Preparing the home for the homeowners’ return
• Winterizing or dewinterizing
• Battery changes and smoke and CO2 detector checks
• Car startup to prevent dead batteries
• Spigot turn-on or turn-off

Related: Keep Your Home Safe on Vacation

Homeowner Special Requests

Feel free to ask us if you have a special request for estate property management while you’re away. If we can accommodate your needs, we will.

Forst Consulting Group’s Homeowner Services

Forst Consulting Group offers a number of homeowner services in addition to estate management. They include

• Construction Contract Review: we can help you choose a contractor, negotiate a fair contract, and review contracts with you so that you fully understand what you’re signing.
• Construction Project Management: Once you have engaged a contractor, rely on Forst Consulting Group to help you monitor that contract and the work. We’ll make sure no shortcuts are taken and that you are fully satisfied with your construction project.
• Negotiations: If you have a dispute with your contractor, you can use Forst Consulting Group as a go-between to help iron out any misunderstandings before they get to be big issues. Since we are construction experts, we can identify problems in construction and provide detailed reports of our findings so that you have evidence on your side.

When you need estate property management while you’re away, or any of our other homeowner services, and are located in Northern Virginia, Maryland or Washington, DC, contact Forst Consulting Group.

The post Residential Estate Management While You’re Away appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Does Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Unless you have a special policy coverage, your normal homeowner’s insurance generally covers home levels that are at ground level or above. Because it is underground, your basement is not considered the first floor. This is most often not covered by water damage insurance – even flood insurance – and the homeowner must pay out of pocket for repairs from water damage. And this can be very expensive.

With one client, their basement was entirely underground and the waterproofing company was required to excavate the entire perimeter around the foundation in order to access the walls, waterproof them, install a new drainage system, add gravel, backfill and landscape. The bill came to more than $24,000.

Water damage insurance coverage can also vary by the source of the water damage. Was it caused by extended neglect or flood? Homeowner policies do not cover these causes.

There is also a fine distinction between flooding and water damage. What is considered “water damage” often involves damage to your home before it hits the outside ground, like internal plumbing failures, a leaky roof, or a faulty sump pump. Since rainwater flooding hits the ground first, it is exempt from coverage.

What Causes Water Damage?

Your basement is where you might see most of the ravages of water damage. Water can seep through or permeate the wall, or flood the space. Water damage can also occur from both natural and man-made or manufactured failures such as plumbing leaks, burst pipes, overflowing sinks or toilets, or malfunctioning appliances. Natural sources of water damage come from high levels of moisture from humidity, rain or groundwater.

Related: Mold and water damage: are they covered by home insurance?

What are the Signs of Water Damage?

The most obvious cause of water damage is flooding. As a result, both walls and floors can show signs that include discoloration, warping or bowing, a spongy feel, or buildup of a substance like mold or efflorescence. Water damage insurance may cover this in some circumstances.

Excessive moisture can cause cracks in floors, walls or foundations. Check around the seals in windows and doors where leaks may occur. Mold can also be detected by smell. If you notice a strong damp and musty smell it is possibly mold or mildew buildup. Be warned that some molds may not have an odor; so look for a dark green, black or white powdery buildup on organic surfaces like wood, walls, and other materials.

Related: How to Spot Water Damage in Your Basement or Foundation

Först Consulting Group – Construction Experts on Your Side

A client called three waterproofing companies to fix their foundation walls that were wet from all the water—2 said they could not take on any more clients, and the third said that it would be several months before they could get to our project. They were reporting more than 400 calls a week!

Först Consulting Group can help property owners with consultations on property issues, professional defect inspections, highly-detailed reporting, and litigation support as a construction expert witness. If you have water damage, let us help you choose the right contractor, negotiate the contract, aid in determining fair costs, keep the project on schedule, and inspect the work along the way. This will ensure that you are not taken advantage of either by your insurance company or your contractor.

Contact Först Consulting Group today to see how we can help.

The post Water Damage Insurance. What’s Really Covered – Or Not appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Why Did I Get This Surprise Charge?

Most of the time, surprise charges often come about because of poor communication and lack of documentation. The contractor either assumed that you would be OK with something they were doing, asked you if you wanted a particular thing done without stating that there was an additional charge, or in passing conversation, told you they were going to do something and asked if that was OK…“This will make it better.” What they failed to do was issue a notice of a charge and a formal change order to your original contract.

As the homeowner, you’re not off the responsibility hook either. You should know that whenever additional work or materials are required, there will most likely be an extra charge. You should never assume that the contractor is not going to charge for something; it is your responsibility to ask if you are in doubt. You can also request a change order be issued.

What To Do Next About Your Surprise Charge

You might be angry when a surprise charge appears on your contractor’s bill, but don’t lose your temper. There are several ways to work out a surprise bill from your contractor.

First of all, step back and think how this may have happened. Did the contractor ask your permission or do the work without your knowledge? Most likely, they did ask and you said OK. In that case, you probably should pay the bill. If the contractor did not ask, you may have room for negotiation on the price.

Ask yourself also if you are pleased with the improvement. Did what the contractor added make a positive difference? If so, you could appreciate the improvement and pay the bill. Most likely, the contractor made a conscientious effort to look after your best interest and was attempting to please you in the long run. The intention was right, even though you might be surprised at the extra bill and the process of approval was wrong.

There are, however, cases where contractors pad the bill or add in extra charges fraudulently. This is where the homeowner can take action with negotiation, mediation or litigation.

The Importance of a Change Order

The best way to protect yourself from a surprise charge is to demand a change order to your original contract. In fact, they should be offered by your contractor.

Virginia’s Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, the regulators for contractor licenses, has strict requirements when it comes to change orders. They also offer a free guide titled, “Before You Hire a Contractor.” One of the guidelines states, “The Board for Contractors requires all changes to a contract be made in writing and signed by both the contractor and consumer before such changes are implemented. Be sure that the written change orders to the contract at detailed and seek legal advice if you have questions about the changes.”

The guide goes on to say, “All agreements should be put in writing. It should include everything you have agreed upon and the extent of work to be done.” And later, “Even after work has already begun, your contractor may offer suggestions that could change your original idea for the project. If you choose to add work to the contract, substitute materials or equipment, or delay the completion date, make sure clearly worded and signed “change orders” reflect all changes to the original, signed contract.”

As you can see, contractors are required by their regulating body to provide written change orders. Having a change order is proof of both what the contractor has agreed to provide, and both parties’ signed approval of the change and its price. Without it, negotiations are open to a “he said, she said” debate that may be hard to win.

Who Can Help You Negotiate, Mediate or Litigate a Surprise Charge?

Först Consulting Group was created to help people involved in a construction dispute. We can represent either side of the case (homeowner or contractor), but not the both sides in the same case. As part of our services, we can provide expert opinion and advice, and help negotiate a reasonable and satisfactory settlement between the parties as a neutral third party. If that cannot be done, we can serve as a construction expert witness on behalf of either party to help prove their side of the story in a legal process through expert testimony and detailed inspection reports.

When you have a conflict you can’t seem to resolve, contact Först Consulting Group. We’ll be glad to briefly discuss your case to see how we can assist. Contact us today.

The post Surprise Charge From Your Contractor? What To Do Next. appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Since most homes aren’t built with the elderly in mind, they can present hazards as we age, like slippery showers, poorly-lit rooms and facilities located in inconvenient areas. Therefore, if you are building a home, you may want to incorporate features for aging in place, also known as Universal Design, into the plans.

For many, preparing a home for aging in place is ideal, and you may have already thought about how you can plan ahead. When doing so, consider which retrofits or installations you might need, as well as who can implement those changes. Some you may be able to do yourself; others may need a professional.

Retrofitting your Home for Aging in Place

To adapt your current home to allow you to age gracefully in place, there are several modifications you may want to make or install, keeping safety and accessibility in mind. Common retrofits for aging in place include:

• Handrails and railings for all steps
• Grab bars and non-slip surfaces in tubs and showers
• Lever door handles for easier grip at entries and exits
• C- and D-shaped handles and faucets for smoother use
• Widened doors and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers
• Better lighting and more fixtures to support poorer vision
• Connecting electrical functions to a remote control for easier use
• Lowering countertops and cabinets

Designing a Home for Aging in Place

When building a home, designing it for aging in place will increase your home’s value as well as add safety features. Consider the above retrofits when making your plans, and install smart home features that can be accessed remotely. Additionally, during construction planning, think about building at least one no-step entrance and include a full bathroom on all floors. You may want a room on the main floor that can later be converted to a bedroom as well.

When choosing flooring materials, choose options that won’t create slippery or uneven surfaces that can cause tripping hazards. Avoid carpets as they can slide and are easy to stumble on.

Who to Hire: Aging in Place Specialists

You have options when hiring someone to make modifications or build with aging in place in mind. Perhaps the most obvious people to hire are Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS). CAPS are trained to anticipate the needs of our older adult population and are adept at implementing solutions and modifications needed to ensure comfortable aging in place. The program for CAPS certification was created as a collaboration of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), American Association of Retired People (AARP, the NAHB Research Center, and the NAHB Seniors Housing Council. This backing ensures that those who attain CAPS are well versed in all areas of aging in place construction.

Other professionals who can assist you plan for aging in place are Certified Graduate Remodelers (CGR) and Graduate Master Remodelers (GMR). They too have been trained to build and renovate for older residents’ safety, independence and comfort. Additionally, many health care providers have staff members who can look at your plans or walk through your house and offer helpful suggestions.

Contact Först Consulting Group

If you need more information about aging in place, need a construction expert to review your building or remodeling plans, or need consulting help in selecting a qualified contractor, contact Först Consulting Group. We are here as your homeowner advocate to help you make all the right decisions when it comes to building or remodeling your home—or talking about what you need to know about aging in place.

Först Consulting Group serves homeowners throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., and can help you make the right decisions – and avoid the wrong decisions – about aging in place now and in your future. Contact us today.

The post Aging in Place: What You Need to Know appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.

Licensed

To do business in a municipality, a construction firm or contractor must obtain a license, or permit to do business. Licenses are filed with government offices like the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). According to DPOR, “Contractor licenses consist of two parts: the class of license (A, B, or C) which determines the monetary value of contracts/projects that may be performed, and the classification/specialty, which determines what type of work is allowed.”

A license is required to perform any type of skilled labor on another person’s home or property. Specific trades like a plumber or electrician must be licensed in their field. Those performing a variety of projects may be required to obtain a general contractor’s license. Each state may also require examinations for different levels of classification, or that the contractor have active worker’s compensation insurance and be bonded.

Bonded

To be considered bonded, a contractor must purchase a surety bond, a type of insurance policy that protects the homeowner. Money is set aside with a bonding company and available to the consumer in the event they file a lawsuit against the contractor or their company. If a contractor fails to complete a job as required or contracted, the bond can provide compensation to a property owner or pay someone to come out and complete the work left by a contractor. The surety company then goes after the contractor for reimbursement of the full amount.

To get bonded, a company or contractor’s record of work history, credit history and other factors are reviewed by the surety company, who feels secure in granting a bond.

Related: Licensed and Bonded Contractors: What It Means and Why Hire

Why You Should Ask Whether a Contractor is Licensed

If a contractor is working without a license, they are breaking the law. There is also a good chance that they are skimping in other areas as well: they may not be obtaining required permits and inspections. This can result in your project not meeting code requirements and aside from creating safety hazards, you may be required to fix or tear out items not up to code if you go to sell your house. Warranties can also be voided if items are installed by an unlicensed contractor.

You may be putting yourself in harm’s way by using an unlicensed contractor if something should happen to the contractor on the jobsite. You would be liable for insurance coverage for their injury and could subject yourself to a lawsuit.

Trust Först Consulting Group

At Först Consulting Group, we want to make sure homeowners and consumers are informed about best practices in the homebuilding and remodeling industry. That ensures fewer problems down the road.

If you have questions about hiring a contractor for your building project and need help negotiating a contract, hiring a construction company, or ensuring they are licensed and bonded, contact Först. We provide a range of homeowner services to help and protect you. Contact us today.

The post What Does Licensed and Bonded Mean? appeared first on Forst Consulting LLC.