#1 Make sure that your contractor is licensed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC).
• Check licenses at LSLBC.Louisiana.gov or 1-800-256-1392
• For home improvement projects valuing $7,500 to $75,000, a contractor needs to have a Home Improvement Registration.
• For residential projects exceeding $75,000, a contractor needs to have a Residential License.
• For more, visit the “License Types and Information” section of the LSLBC website.
#2 Ask your contractor for references.. and CHECK THEM!
#3 Check for current insurance.It is good practice to verify your contractor hasGeneral Liability & Workers’ Compensation.
#4 When collecting bids, remember that if a bid sounds to good to be true, it probably is.
#5 Don’t sign anything before fully understanding it. If your contractor is pressuring you to sign, perhaps you should reconsider the person you are hiring.
#6 Keep good records of everything related to your project. This includes payment records — never pay in cash.
#7 A General Contractor is responsible for all aspects of the project, including proper permitting, scheduling, planning and coordinating, subcontractors and suppliers.
#8 Check regulations before you begin any project. This includes Deed Restrictions & Zoning Ordinances.
#9 Set a specific Timeline & Payment Schedule. Draw schedule should coincide with progress of work.
#10 Make sure change orders are documented with your contractor. A verbal agreement is not enough!
