Van Buren To Require Contractors to obtain Permits
Submitted by David Cross on April 18, 2008 - 6:44am.
As Fort Smith has done for some time, as of Monday following this post, Van Buren will require all contrators to obtain permits to perform work within the city. This is a great tool for homeowners, as it will verify the contrators' license, insurance and validity. In other words, if you have a contractor knocking on your door offering repairs from the storm, be sure they get a permit prior to starting the job. If they don't- look for the fish, as something will start to stink.
This is an individual permit for each home. ($20 and up per home- dependant on size of job) MAKE SURE THE PERMIT IS IN THE NAME OF THE CONTRACTOR DOING THE WORK. (my mother in law just received a quote for $4000 OVER the insurance amount paid- this is called a rip off- he had no permit, in his own name of coarse)
Get your quote itemized- in other words:
How much is your insurance co. paying for "tear off" of existing roof? How much for put back? (these two amounts added together, should equal between $140/$150 per square for 30 yr, Arc Shingles. Once you figure in the replacement of 'vent caps', flashing, etc., it may add in a few dollars more per square. There may also be '2nd story' charges, "steep" charges, and more.
IF your contractor's pricing EXCEEDS your insurance co.'s payoff amount to replace what you have- w/out doing additional work, then be wary-very wary. Get another quote.
If you have any questions on these requirements, contact your City's permit office.
Hope this helps someone! IF you have had a crazy experience with your contractor, please let us know on this board!! You may not want to name names, but the experience may be beneficial to other members!!
Pass this on to the Older folks you may know. Help them out, if you can.
Great advice, David!
Building inspectors are being very aggressive in patrolling for contractors who haven't posted building permits. This is for our protection -- to ensure the work is done properly, every step of the way. On a roof, for instance, inspectors will make sure the decking is right and the overhangs and joints are built to reduce the chance of leaking, prolong the life of your structure, and even keep you safe in another hail storm or a tornado.
Here are some tips and resources as you shop for a contractor:
1. Contractor should be licensed to conduct business in Fort Smith. Call 784.2250 to verify, and to find out how long the business has been in practicing in the area.
2. Contractor should have a certification or license for the specific craft work you need done. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work must be performed by state licensed and city registered contractors. Call 784.2006 to verify registration.
3. Call the State Attorney General’s office to check for any outstanding complaints. Arkansas Attorney General’s office - (501) 682.2007.
4. Does the contractor have proof of workmen’s compensation and general liability insurance? If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accident on your premises.
5. Does the contractor have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers?
6. Ask the contractor to provide you with names of previous customers. Talk to previous customers to see if they would hire the same contractor again.
7. Have you seen the contractor’s work, both completed and in progress? Check for quality of workmanship and materials.
8. Are you able to communicate easily with the contractor? Misunderstandings during the course of a project can lead to costly overruns and delays.
9. Do you feel comfortable with the contractor? You will be in close contact with the business and will share your home or business with the crew until the project is complete.
10. Will the contractor provide you with a complete and clearly written contract?
11. Be sure proper work permits have been obtained and that your contractor’s work is inspected at each stage of construction.
Also, to verify whether or not a contractor has a state contractor’s license, contact the Contractor’s Licensing Board at (501) 372.4661.