It is very important to find a remodeler that you feel comfortable with and that you feel you can work well with.

Hiring a competent contractor is crucial for making your home-improvement venture a success. But before you hire a contractor, it’s a good idea to do your homework. That way, you can avoid the pitfalls that could arise.

What a Contractor Does
A general contractor manages and oversees all aspects of the project. He or she orders supplies and pays suppliers, gets building permits and schedules permit inspections and, depending on the size of the job, hires and supervises subcontractors such as plumbers or electricians. Sometimes the contractor provides architecture and design assistance as well.

Your Search
The first step in finding a good contractor is to ask people you know - friends, neighbors, relatives and coworkers - for referrals. The Greater Iowa City Area Home Builders Association (www.iowa cityhomes.com) is another great place to find reputable remodelers in the area.

The next step is to call the contractor. If you get a good feeling for the person on the phone then set up an in-person meeting.”

Whatever you do, don’t rush the hiring process. Take the time to interview at least three candidates and look at the work they’ve done. Speak to their clients and ask if they were happy with the job.

Red flags
First impressions count, including how a person talks, acts and dresses.

Watch out for contractors who solicit door-to-door, ask for cash up front, want payment for the entire job in advance, try to pressure you into signing a contract using threats or intimidation, or encourage you to spend money on temporary repairs.

The Contract
All agreements - including oral promises - should be put in writing for your protection. Key points include the contractor’s name, address, phone and license number, if required by your state; a detailed description of all items to be installed - the quality, quantity, size, color and brand names of stoves, appliances, tiles, and cabinets, for example; a work schedule with approximate start and completion dates; and a payment schedule.

Initial deposits shouldn’t be more than 10 percent of the entire job. The rest of the payments should be made periodically during the job, contingent on the completion of work. (Usually, there are five or six payments.) Other important clauses are a “broom” clause with provisions for daily cleanups, trash hauling, and dust control as well as a change order. A change order - a written authorization by you to change or add to the work described in the original contract - is common. But be aware that this often affects the length and cost of the project. If you want to change something, stop all work and get an order right away so you won’t waste time or money.

Last but not least is a warranty clause covering the work, including labor and materials. You should also ask for written warranties offered by manufacturers of cabinets, appliances, fixtures, bathtubs, sinks and tiles (as applicable). The average warranty time is one year to 18 months.