Home Remodeling: What You Don't Know And How It Works by the Familia Publishing is a rare book which should be owned by every homeowner, coop apartment dweller and really anyone who could plan to have major work done on a property. The book covers just about every conceivable issue that needs to be considered before closing a contract and paying any money.
The book covers may details involved in the design/layout preparation, building permits, cost elements (labor, materials and overhead), subcontractors, project surprises, major disruptions and the dreaded iceberg phenomena. The iceberg phenomena is basically the twilight zone of ongoing enhancements which never seem to end.
The book provides excellent sources for avoiding headaches by consulting with realtors, Angie's List and the Better Business Bureau. Even former clients of the contractor can be a huge source of relevant information. Another good idea is to get pictures of the current condition, as well as the planned design.
The book covers the all-important contractor contract which may include work scope, project plans, a required deposit, milestone payments, details on the mechanics liens, contractor licensing and the use of subcontractors.
The mechanics lien is an important area of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). In essence, any party who performs major work on your property can file a mechanics lien in the property office. This document essentially puts every future buyer on notice that money is owed to a contractor or subcontractors. The mechanics lien is in place until the contractor is paid in full.
The book documents many areas of the contractor/subcontractor relationship that could go wrong. Potential purchasers of these services need to know about the various pitfalls before taking the plunge to do a major enhancement on a property or portion thereof.
Home Remodeling is an important acquisition which should be in every homeowner's library. The book is brief and to the point. The cost is very affordable.
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