- Check for a license where required (these counties have licensing requirements for home improvement contractors: Nassau, New York City, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester)
- Ask for proof of insurance coverage (e.g. workers compensation, property, liability)
- Ask for local references and call the references to see if they were satisfied with the work. If possible, visually inspect examples of the contractor's work; do not rely on photographs provided by the contractor
- Get at least three written estimates, especially if the job is big
- Ask about experience and training
- Inquire whether the project requires a permit, and who is responsible for obtaining it. Consider double-checking with local authorities about whether a permit is required.
- Get a written contact. Under the law, contracts for jobs costing $500 or more must be in writing, but it's best to get a written contract in all cases. Make sure the contract includes:
- The approximate start date and completion date of the work, including any contingencies that would change the completion date
- A specific description of the work and materials, including brands, model numbers and other identifying information, along with the price
- A requirement that the contractor will comply with all applicable laws, regulations and codes, and that no work will be done until the contractor has obtained all necessary permits
- For more information, see the New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection sample home improvement contract
- Keep in mind that the law gives you three days to cancel a home improvement contract. Cancellation must be in writing and should be sent to the contractor by certified mail, return receipt requested
- The approximate start date and completion date of the work, including any contingencies that would change the completion date
View the Division's Home Ownership page to learn about schemes used by some unethical contractors to rip-off consumers.