Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Am I responsible (as the homeowner) for going to the Regional Building Department and acquiring my own permit for my remodeling project?

A: It is important to understand that the person who pulls the permit is ultimately liable--this means that he/she is now the contractor & even if that person does not do the work. I would suggest that if you are paying to have your project done, the contractor you are paying should take on this responsibility.

Q: What should I consider when I am looking for a contractor?

A: Most people start remodeling projects with a budget. However, it is important to understand that price should not be the determining factor in choosing a contractor. Make sure that the contract is complete and includes everything that you asked for from the contractor. Many times the low bid is simply not a complete bid and you will be hit with extra charges as the project progresses.

Q: Is it important that the contractor I choose has insurance liability and workman's compensation? How do I find out if he is really insured?

A: It is important to understand that if you hire a contractor that does not carry insurance, and someone gets hurt while working on the project, you are responsible as the homeowner. You could be sued for hospital or disability costs. To find out if your contractor has insurancel, ask him to have his insurance company send you a copy of his insurance policy with your name as the policy holder.

Q: Which is better--the handyman or the contractor?

A: If the handyman is licensed and insured a he can provide a good service for small jobs. However, a contractor can offer a full-service project. Raleigh Holt Industries, Inc., for example, offers service from the beginning to the end of your project including ideas, design, and build-through.

Q: Do I need an architect?

A: Raleigh Holt Industries, Inc., is a design/build company. We do our designing in house. Some companies do work with an outside architect. We design in-house.

Q: What kind of deposit is required when I sign a contract?

A: This depends on the size of the project. I would be wary of a contractor that asks for a 50 to 75 percent deposit on a large home remodeling project. The most important thing is to ask for a payment schedule so you can see where your money is going.

Q: How do I find out about my contractor's past experience?

A: Ask for references on current projects and past projects so you can speak with people who have worked with the contractor. Also, ask if you can take a look at those projects. It is a good idea to call the Better Business Bureau to find out about the record of your contractor.

Q: I have heard so many nightmare stories about remodeling,such as projects that went way over budget and time. How can I make sure that this does not happen on my project?

A: Understanding the details of your project is very important. All materials should be specified and allowances, clearly stated to keep the project within the budget. Any variations in materials are the homeowner's choice and therefore add to the cost. Also, a knowledgeable contractor can inform you of potential setbacks before the project starts ,so you are not disappointed by the time frame.

Raleigh Holt Industries, Inc.
62C Mount View Lane Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Email us at: sales@raleighholt.com    Ph: (719) 522-9383    Fax: (719) 528-6850
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