Before you Hire a Contractor

• Verify the contractor's license: The Contractors State License Board can tell you over the phone if a particular individual is legally licensed to do work in California. The board, which also handles complaints and can provide consumer information, can be reached at 800 321-2752 or you can look up your contractor on their web site at http://www.cslb.ca.gov/consumers/default.asp   Do not be mislead by a business card or number on a contract and take that as proof that a contractor is licensed. Always call before you sign anything. In addition to the license, also verify the business address and telephone number of anyone you are considering employing.

• Reference check: Call the contractor's previous customers and find out if the person you are thinking of hiring kept to a schedule and contract. Did they stay within budget? Did they listen and seem concerned about resolving problems and make any necessary corrections.

• Do not be rushed into hiring anyone: Get at least three written bids using identical plans and specifications so you can compare prices. And remember, if the offer sounds too good to be rue, it probably is.

• Know your rights: The law requires a contractor to give you written notice of your right to cancel a contract within three days after signing it, provided that the contract was not solicited at the contractor's own business.

• Insurance: Make sure the contractor is properly insured against claims for worker injury or damage. Ask to see a copy of the certificate of insurance or the name of the contractor's carrier and agency.

• Bonding: Check the status of the contractor's bonding capability. All licensed contractors are required to post a $5,000 cash deposit with the state as a minimum but there are other types of bonds.

• Get it in writing: Know exactly what the work will be and how much it is expected to Cost, then establish a payment and work schedule.

• Don't pay for it all up front: It is illegal for contractors to demand total payment on a job before the work is done. Pay for the work in stages according to an agreed upon schedule and make sure that everything is being done to your satisfaction before releasing any money. Contractors can only ask for a down payment of 10 percent of the cost of the job or $ 1,000, whichever figure is less.

• Avoid liens on your home: Ensure that all materials suppliers have or are being paid and obtain releases to protect yourself from vendors collecting on money owed by the contractor.

• Complaint procedure: If you have problems of any kind with a contractor you may contact the State Contractors License Board to learn more about their complaint procedure. And, if you suspect criminal activity, you should also report it to your local police department or the Marin County District Attorney's Consumer Protection Division at 499-6450.

• Proof of Insurance: Always ask for proof of insurance for both Workman's Compensation and General Liability. Ask for a certificate naming you, the homeowner, for full protection.

• Quality is an Investment: Grades of lumber vary dramatically. Companies cut prices by compromising materials. Lower grade materials have a much shorter lifespan than quality materials, thus they will deteriorate quicker. Replacement will be necessary much sooner, therefore, it will actually cost more than your original investment in quality.

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