ig ley

operators

MOST HOME improvement con-
tractors are honest, reliable, skilled
professionals. But some are not.
How do you tell the reputable pro-
fessionals from the scam artists?
The following — guidelines
_ Should help you avoid pitfalls.
B Get detailed estimates from ar
least three contractors. Check each
with your Joca) Better Business
Bureau. .
@ Beware of quick estimates. A
legitimate contractor needs time to
prepare a detailed and accurate
estimate, |
M Beware of high pressure sales
tactics to get you to sign a con-
tract, Limiting the amount of time
you have to make a decision is one
such tactic.
@ Make sure the written contract
includes, all the oral promises
made, by the seller. If it doesn’t,
make sure they are added to the
contract.
@ If you are approached at your
home, the contractor is a “direct
seller” and must be licensed. Ask
to. see the licence or ID and

-.. remember your 7-day cancellation

right.
@ Don’t pay cash unless a compa-

ny receipt is produced.

Be suspicious of any contractor
who:
asks for more than 10 or 20 per
cent downpayment:

Bicls you there is enough muter-
ial left over from the last job to do
your job als cut-rate price:

says vour roof looks hazardous
and needs immediate repairs —
geta second or third opinion:

B offers you a commission for
everyone who Sees your home and
agrees to have the same remodel-
ling job done: or

says that as the factory represen-
tative they will offer you a “good
deal” on home repairs.

Finally, withhold [0 per cent of
the contract price from the con-
tractor for 40 days after the con-
tract has been completed. This will
protect you if there are any liens
against your home from workers.
subcontractors and ‘supplicrs who
have not been paid.

Check with the Land Title
Office for liens before paying the
remaining 10 per cent.

— Ministry of Housing,
Recreation and Consumer Services.

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Wednesday, March 15, 1995 — North Shore News ~ 25

NEWS photo Mike Wakefield

ONE WAY of updating and sprucing up a bathroom is to add mouidings, borders or wallpaper. By
breaking up the walls with one or more of these you can enhance an otherwise boring situation.

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