Advice for building a house

[spence]

Originally Posted by mikecc

Everything in writing even costs of extras. If he says he is going to do something for free get it in writing.

Yup and make no assumptions either.

As much as you have time for, keep an eye on everything. People make mistakes and it's better to catch them early when it's easier to fix.

-spence

[Bob Thomas]

Talk to B-12 about it!

[Clammer]

be there EVERYDAY but at all different times >>>>>

[seabass]

1) A written contract, there is no substitue. AIA makes a very good one.
2) Complete plans and specs.
3) Changes on paper are much cheaper then changes to structure, do your homework.
4) Hire a reputable contractor, this is no place to save a buck.
5)Make sure a schedule is included in the contract.
6) Make sure all change orders are priced and signed before the work is done.
7)Set up a time once a week when you and the contractor walk the job and discuss schedule, quality, problems together.
8) You get what you pay for, beware of so called bargains!
9make sure you have a copy of contractors liabilty, workers comp, and alll liscences. Also all subcontractor lien releases.
10) Have fun and good luck.

[vineyardblues]

Buy a keg or 2 of good beer

VB

[JohnR]

Originally Posted by seabass

7)Set up a time once a week when you and the contractor walk the job and discuss schedule, quality, problems together.

And maintain a schedule progress chart with defined milestones that you and the GC can both utilize...

Originally Posted by vineyardblues

Buy a keg or 2 of good beer

VB

To be delivered on Friday atfter 3:30

[BEETLE]

Heed all the above advice, also see Mass. General Laws Chapter 142A
Laws, Rules and Regulations concerning Licensed home improvement Contractors.
Just getting to the end of an addition on my house, been aggravating to say the least for 20 + weeks.
Wish I had this info before I started.
Watch your A$$ with some of these contractors bro.

[Sgt_Nutz]

Go visit the local building inspector. It will be to your advantage to be on good terms with him/her. May want to consider visiting the Board of Health, Conservation as well if you havnt already. None of them can recomend a particular contracter but if you say had a list of three or so you may get a thumbs up or down on them. Unofficially of course. Try and go with someone local who is already known in the town offices. My wife works in one of the above offices and can tell me right off who the problems are and who does good work. It will be to your advantage if you AND your contracter are on good terms with all those offices.
I contracted my own house and the best thing I ever did was hire a real estate attorney. Not the bank attorney that is at the closings but one that represents YOU. May cost $500 to $1000 but it is well spent. Good luck!