Cahoon Construction:

Know and save:

If you do sign a contract and then have second thoughts, remember that the Federal Trade Commission's "Cooling Off Rule" may apply if the contract was signed somewhere other than the contractor's place of business (in your home, for example). Under this law, you have up to 72 hours to cancel the agreement.

Terms to Know:

- Commercial
- Residential

Request more answers:

MOLD ?

Even though the issue of household mold is not new, you may have heard something about it recently in the media. This link will tell you what mold is, how it can grow in your home, the routine maintenance procedures you can follow to prevent mold problems, and methods of removing mold already in your home.

http://www.moldtips.com/index.htm

Your browser does not support inline frames or is currently configured not to display inline frames.

Best Practices

What to Look For, What to Ask

When you hire a remodeler, you are buying a service rather than a product. The quality of the service the remodeler provides will determine the quality of the finished project and your satisfaction with it. You will want to explore the following qualifications when interviewing a remodeler.

Maintain a permanent mailing address, phone number, email, fax and pager number for the remodeler.

Make sure the remodeler carries insurance that protects you from claims arising due to property damage or jobsite injuries. Ask the remodeler how much the project might add to your home’s value and obtain the necessary additional insurance.

Check to see how established the company is in the community. How long has the remodeler been in business? Does the company maintain solid relationships with experienced independent trade contractors? Does the company possess a trustworthy reputation among customers, peers, and those in the industry?

Inquire whether the remodeler carries a designation such as Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Bath Designer (CBD), or Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD).

Ask them about their knowledge and conformance with the NY State Home Improvement contract law and its payment, escrow and lien law provisions.

P.S. – Did you know that by hiring a home improvement contractor rather than performing the construction yourself, you reduce your legal liabilities on the project substantially? For examples of these liabilities contact NYSBA at 518-465-2492.

We encourage you to work with us on protecting consumer interests throughout New York State. Below are some other helpful links:

CONSUMER GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING IMPACT FEES
CHOOSING THE RIGHT CUSTOM HOME BUILDER
HOW TO FIND A PROFESSIONAL REMODELER
FIND A BUILDER, REMODELER OR CONTRACTOR BY CONTACTING A NYSBA AFFILIATE
HOME BUYER'S DICTIONARY
MORTGAGE BASICS
PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM CONTRACTOR FRAUD
REMODELING VS. MOVING

Free advice:

Look Familiar - We can help...

Specific Recommendations:

T-JAK
The regular T-JAK adjusts from 53 to 84 inches. It’s a handy tool for many jobs and makes it easier for someone working alone to do the work. For instance the installer will set the cabinet on the the T-JAK, raise it into position and then make the final adjustments to be perfectly level. Using the T-JAK eliminates the need for bracing or cleats and allows the installer to place shims behind the back of the cabinet when the walls are not straight or plumb. The T-JAK safely support all the different size wall cabinets needed on kitchen remodeling projects.
Mini-Brute
The T-JAK Mini-Brute, model MB-101, can adjust from 15 to 24 inches. This is the ideal tool to install upper cabinets when the base cabinets are already in place. The Mini-Brute is also used to install deck beams and ledgers. Works great as an adjustable outward brace. It is a versatile tool with many applications.