I only recommend contractors now. I do not contract any longer, so I am able to give an unbiased opinion.
If you do have to make repairs in order to become more energy efficient, you must decide if you will complete them yourself or hire a qualified repair person. The homeowner who does his or her own maintenance and repairs saves money. You can learn about home maintenance and repair from a variety of sources, including:
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Manufacturers use and care booklets and care guides from repair and cleaning products.
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Cooperative Extension home maintenance and repair publications.
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Do-it-yourself (DIY) publications — these are often available for free in builder supply, home improvement or hardware stores.
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Home maintenance and repair books and videos — these are available from libraries, bookstores, and home improvement stores.
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Local home improvement stores — these stores often have weekend workshops and even web sites that offer home maintenance and repair information and how-to projects.
If you do not have the time, skills or interest in maintaining and repairing your home, be certain to hire a qualified, experienced repair person to do the work.
Here are some tips for finding a contractor:
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Ask friends to recommend repair contractors
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Get at least 3 written estimates for the project. Most contractors give free estimates
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If licensing is required, ask to see the contractor’s license and proof of insurance and bonding
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Do not pay for the work in full before the work is done. It is not uncommon to put pay a small down payment
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Get a signed written agreement before work begins and money is exchanged.
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The agreement should specify work to be done and payment schedules.
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It should also detail the type of work to be completed.
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Do not make final payments on the project until the work has been performed to your satisfaction.
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Check with the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General’s Office if you have an questions or complaints about a contractor.
Regardless of who does the work, regular inspection and maintenance of your home will keep your home in good condition and maintain its value. Remember, a home cannot take care of itself.
Let's look at this from another angle. Do you give yourself a regular physical examination or go to a qualified doctor. If you live in your body every day and want to take care of it what about your home that you live in everyday? Wouldn't you agree that your home should have a physical examination by a professional home inspector?
