Homeowner's Toolkit Archive


How do I avoid being ripped off by a less than reputable contractor?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
According to the Federal Trade Commission, there are several ways to spot less than reputable contractors because these hucksters tend to do the following: ...
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What guidelines should I use to find a contractor?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Use caution. Your home is your most valuable financial asset. You will want someone who completes the job, not botch it up. It is important that you find a competent and reliable contractor who will successfully complete your home improvement project. ...
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Are there different types of contractors?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Home improvement professionals vary. Who you hire also will depend largely on the size and complexity of your project. What follows is a brief description of the different contractors who do work for homeowners: ...
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Should I always get a permit before making home improvements?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
To save both time and money, some people avoid getting building permits. But most cities require them. Besides ensuring safety during construction - housing inspectors sometimes stop by to check on the progress of projects at key points - they are also a source of revenue. ...
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How do building codes work?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Building codes set minimum public-safety standards for such things as building design, construction, use and occupancy, and maintenance. The codes are established and enforced by local politicians and government officials, who also tend to modify them constantly. The codes are usually enforced by denying permits, occupancy certificates, and by imposing ...
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What is a variance?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
It is a request made to your local jurisdiction to deviate from current zoning requirements. If granted, a variance will allow you to use your land in a way that is normally not permitted by the zoning ordinance. ...
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How can I find out how my property is zoned?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Zoning ordinances and maps are a matter of public record. Visit your local zoning office, city hall, or some other local planning board and get a copy of your local ordinance. ...
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What do zoning regulations do?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Zoning is the government's way of controlling the physical development of land and the kinds of uses to which each individual property may be put. ...
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Is there such a thing as “over improving”?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Yes. The last thing you want to do when undertaking a home improvement is go overboard. This means fixing up the home to the point where it becomes worth far more than nearby neighborhood properties. ...
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What kind of return can I expect from home improvements?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Some improvements offer a greater return than others do. This will vary greatly depending on the type of work you have done. Remodeling magazine publishes an annual "Cost vs. Value Report'' that can answer this question in more detail, based on the top 15 home improvements. A recent study it ...
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