Your remodel or addition doesn't have to be a nightmare. I have done plenty of jobs over the last 30 years and most of my customers are dear friends. Remember that a well respected contractor in Portland Oregon will have a proven track record. Trust your intuition and gut feeling when the initial introduction is made either through a referral or other means.

It is very important that a homeowner uses a licensed contractor in Portland Oregon. Homeowners lose the ability to recover damages through the bond as well as the CCB Dispute Resolution Service if they use an unlicensed contractor. Don't take the chance of getting in trouble because of trying to cut corners and always check the contractors license.

Why check a contractor's license? The Construction Contractors Board (CCB) believes the best way to a successful home improvement, repair or new home project is to know your contractor. Checking a contractor's license can tell you:

* The contractor is actively licensed and has a surety bond;

* The contractor submitted proof of liability insurance at the time of application and insurance renewal*;

* The contractor submitted information that they carry Workers' Comp Insurance to protect its workers on the project;

* Breach of contract complaints filed with the CCB in the past seven years.

* CCB disciplinary actions against business in the pasts seven years

A contractor in Portland Oregon must be licensed, insured and bonded. The only way that can happen is if the contractor has been accepted by the Construction Contractors Board (CCB). This means going through paper work and finally writing an exam which must be passed in order to be accepted.

Here are the most common mistakes Homeowners make when hiring a contractor in Portland Oregon.

1. Automatically accepting the lowest bid. The contractor may have missed some items.

A higher bid may be worth the price in better materials, workmanship and reliability.

2. No written contract.

A written contract protects you and the contractor. It is required that all construction agreements be committed to a written contract if the price exceeds $2000. All agreements, including all changes to the contract, should be in writing.

3. Not checking the contractor's license.

A license is required for any construction business that advertises, offers, bids, or performs any construction, home improvement, remodeling or repair work.

4. Not checking references.

Check with previous customers. Were they satisfied with the work? Was the work

finished on time? Did the contractor return phone calls? If the

person had problems with the contractor, ask how the contractor responded to complaints.

If you cannot visit any of the contractor's jobsites in Portland Oregon then ask for pictures.

For your protection - Contracts should be as detailed as possible. Some items to include are materials and costs, permits, estimated start and completion dates, debris removal, and arbitration clauses. Here are some pointers to assure a solid contract.

*Read and understand your contract before signing it - Don't be pressured into signing your contract without taking the time needed to go through it. Make sure it includes enough details to avoid misunderstandings and to protect you and your property.

*Special Note on Liens - Subcontractors and material suppliers that work on your project are often paid by the general contractor. If a general contractor fails to pay, the subcontractor may file a lien on your property. For information on construction liens, visit the CCB's Consumer

*A Payment Schedule - should be included in the contract. Stick to the schedule and never pay in full for a project before the work is complete.

You run the risk of disappointment and problems trying to cut corners with your contractor in Portland Oregon.. People sometimes get into trouble by not hiring a licensed contractor because they may get a break in the price. That is because certain fees and other costs are eliminated by someone who tries to operate a business under the radar screen.

An inexperienced contractor in Portland Oregon may forego the permit stage, which eliminates building inspections altogether. This can save a homeowner some money but is probably the most dangerous scenario of any home remodel. A homeowner and the Contractor run the risk of fines and stop orders if discovered, but the biggest expense can come in the form of major problems and even fire somewhere in the future. Don't take the risk with one of your biggest investments.

John Kowal has spent most of his life in the Construction Trade as a Master Carpenter. He holds an Interprovincial(Red Seal) Journeyman Certificate in Canada since 1982. He is also licensed,Bonded and Insured in 2 categories in the United States since 1992. He turned his attention to Network Marketing in 1991 and has since then trained with many different Industry leaders. Jonathan Budd has secured the spot as Primary Mentor for John. John spent 22 years in the Movie Industry as a Scenic Carpenter,building sets on Major Feature Films. He holds an USPA rated D-License in Skydiving. His successful students reflect his passion for maintaining the most recent levels of training in Online Marketing. When it’s time for Remodeling in Portland Oregon, feel free to give Johnny a call at 5038689704. You need to know as much as possible about your Contractor and the remodel before proceeding. http://ContractorPortlandOregon.com