Tips on Working With Home Contractors
From the Albany County Department of Consumer Affairs
and the Albany County Executive's Office

Consumers have rights and responsibilities in the marketplace!

Tips for Consumers

• Know the exact work you want done
  Never agree to get work done on the spot. Decide what improvements you want then seek out a qualified contractor.
• Job estimates
  Get estimates, including specific information about the materials and services to be provided, from several contractors.
• Ask for references
  Always contact the references provided and ask the following questions:
  
  • Can I visit your home and see the work the contractor did?
  • Did the contractor keep you updated throughout the job?
  • Were the workers on time?
  • Would you use this contractor again?
    
• Get a written contract
  Insist on a detailed contract, in writing, signed by the contractor. CLICK HERE to view and print a sample contract that would be legally binding in New York State [.PDF*].
  
• Do not pay unreasonable advances
  Set up a payment schedule that corresponds with specific stages of the job. All money paid in advance is required to be placed in an escrow account.
  
• Keep Records
  • Keep all paper work, including copies of insurance certificates.
  • Keep a log to document calls and conversations with the contractor.
  • Keep a journal of activities including payments.
    

The Completed Project

Before making your last payment, check the work for the following:

• The work meets the specifications of the contract;
• The contractor has provided you with written warranties for the materials and workmanship;
• The contractor shows you proof that the sub-contractors and supplies are paid for;
• The work area has been cleaned;
• You are fully satisfied with the completed job.

Home Improvement Contracts

View and print a suggested contract legally binding in NYS in  Adobe Acrobat Reader (.pdf). 

Home improvement contracts must be:

• Written;
• Understood by the consumer;
• Given to the consumer before the work begins.
  

The contract must contain:

• The contractor’s name, address and a permanent telephone number;
• The approximate start and completion dates;
• Specific description of the work materials;
• Notice of three day cancellation;
• Payment schedule.
  

The contract should contain:

• All oral promises should be written into the contract; and
• A broom clause (makes the contractor responsible for cleaning up when the job is completed).