Increasingly, the number of home improvement projects being carried out by consumers is expanding. This is a positive sign for the profession. However, there are some pitfalls to consider before hiring a contractor to perform your renovation work.
First, make sure that the contractor is licensed in New York City and Westchester County. In addition, check their references. Then, establish a payment schedule. You may want to put an initial down payment and then incremental payments until the project is complete. You should also make sure that they have insurance coverage.
Next, check whether they have been in business for several years. Customers prefer to work with reputable, established firms. You can learn more about their experience by speaking to former customers or neighbors.
You should also ask about their insurance and licensing. You should never hire a contractor whose insurance coverage is less than what you need to be protected. You should also ensure that they have an escrow account, which can be used only for the purpose of the renovation until it is completed.
It is important that the contractor provides you with a written contract. The contract should include a detailed description of the work, the cost and the expected time it will take to complete the project. The contract should also include a timeline. You should also itemize all receipts for the project, and you should keep track of labor costs.
While the majority of homeowners plan to hire a professional for some of their projects, many are planning to do a few home improvements themselves. In fact, the average DIYer plans to spend more time on home improvement projects in 2021 than he did last year. This trend is likely to continue, as the market is becoming increasingly popular.
The Axiom survey found that the most common home improvement category is outdoor work, including putting up fences and decks. The second most popular category is indoor work, with respondents planning to install or repair their garages and windows, and add or replace interior lighting.
Overall, the Axiom survey found that homeowners are continuing to invest in their homes, and that the industry is growing at a rate of 4 percent per year. The Axiom also asked consumers about their recent projects. It found that 45 percent of respondents had a major renovation project underway, while 16 percent said they were not planning to undertake any more difficult projects.
The number of DIYers who plan to conduct a project on their own increased by more than threefold between March and July. Among those who plan to do a project themselves, 57 percent plan to do it within the next year.
The home improvement market is becoming increasingly competitive, as more and more players enter the market. The major vendors compete on a wide range of factors, including product portfolio, premiumization, and pricing. There are also a number of private label companies.
As you are considering a contractor, make sure you find one who offers you a competitive price, is a reputable company, and has a long history of completing successful projects.