How to Select a Professional Remodeler

National Association of the Remodeling Industry has established a Code of Ethics for all it's members.

By Gloria Brown

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), the only independent association dedicated to the remodeling industry, is a not-for-profit trade association with over 30 years of industry experience. NARI represents professional remodeling contractors, product manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, trade publications, utilities and lending institutions. NARI is committed to enhancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and serves as an ally to homeowners.

Selecting a qualified professional remodeling contractor is critical to a successful project. Be better prepared to make an informed purchasing decision. NARI’s guidelines make the process easier.

REFERENCES ̥

Hire a qualified remodeler with an established business in your area who works with your city or village permitting office. Local firms can be checked through references from past customers.

REPUTATION

Check with your state government Consumer Affairs Office and Better Business Bureau to ensure there is no adverse file on record for the contractor.

INSURANCE

Verify coverage. Ask to see a copy of the contractor’s Certification of Insurance. ̥
Make sure the contractor’s insurance coverage meets all the minimum requirements.
Most states require a contractor to carry worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability insurance.

BID PROCESS

If you solicit bids from several different companies, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work and/or product. ̥
Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that is much lower than others.

Each member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry pledges to observe high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility in the conduct of business by:

Promoting only those products and services which are functionally and economically sound, and which are consistent with objective standards of health and safety; ̥
Making all advertising and sales promotion factually accurate, avoiding those practices which tend to mislead or deceive the customer;
Writing all contracts and warranties such that they comply with federal, state and local laws;
Promptly acknowledging and taking appropriate action on all customer complaints;
Refraining from any act intended to restrain trade or suppress competition;
Obtaining and retaining insurance as required by federal, state and local authorities;
Obtaining and retaining licensing and/or registration as required by federal, state and local authorities;
Taking appropriate action to preserve the health and safety of employees, trade contractors, and clients