The Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board was created by the State Legislature to help reduce problems and resolve disputes in Rhode Island’s residential construction industry.

Most residential construction projects are completed without problems. Some projects run into minor problems and a few have major problems. In our efforts to resolve these problems, the Board has learned that most of them could have been prevented. Here are some suggestions to help make your construction experience more pleasant.

Choosing Your Contractor:

The old saying "you get what you pay for" certainly applies to home construction. Select your building contractor carefully.

1. Solicit two or three bids.

2. Do not automatically accept the lowest bid. Be wary of “special deals”,” demonstration projects”, or offers from “a friend of a friend”. A higher bid may be worth the price for better materials, workmanship, or reliability.

3. Ask the contractor for references. Call the references to see if they were satisfied with the contractor's work and how the contractor responded to questions or complaints.

4. Give special consideration to contactors who are members of a professional builders’ association. A member of a professional association is one indication that a contractor recognizes the responsibilities of being a professional. Choose a professional.

5. Make sure the contractor is registered with the State of Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board. If the contractor is registered with the board, the contractor has liability and property damage insurance. You can check a contractors’ registration by visiting the Board on our Web site: www.crb.state.ri.us or call the board at 401-222-1268. When you call, ask the following questions:

• Is the contractor registered?
• How long has the contractor been registered?
• Does the contractor have any open claims or violations?
• Is the contractors insurance up to date?
• Does contractor have any employees, if so; does he have workmen’s compensation insurance?

You can get help from the Board resolving construction-related disputes and problems for up to one year after work is done, or two years if during the first year you notified contractor of the problem in writing.

Signing the Contract:

A written contract protects both parties, you and the contractor. Put all agreements in writing. Avoid oral contracts. Contracts over $1,000 must be in writing.

The contract should include the following:

• A clause stating the job will not commence until a permit (if required) has been obtained.
• A list of materials to be used, such as; quality, quantity, weight, color, size or brand name.
• Starting date and completion date.
• Total price, scheduled disbursements, and whether there is any cancellation penalty.
• Everything you feel is important to the job, such as specific materials, complete clean-up and removal of debris, and any special requests.
• A notice of possible mechanic’s lien (contractors’, sub-contractors and material suppliers).
• A 3 day right of cancellation, only if the contract is signed out of contractors’ place of business.
• A list of what the contractor will and will not do.
• Ask for a list of sub-contractors being used on the project, if any.

Working with a Contractor:

Think your project through from start to finish. Insist that you approve the completed plans before work begins. When you see the plans, study them carefully to make sure they illustrate your project accurately. Ask Questions!

If changes from original plans occur during construction, put them in writing as amendments to the contract, including any changes in cost. These changes are called “change orders” and should be signed by both you and contractor, and should be clearly understood.

Before accepting the job as complete, walk through it with contractor listing any defects needing correction. Never sign for completion until all work called for in the contract has been properly completed; also ask if all or any required inspections have been done by the building official’s department.

Obtaining Building permits:

Construction of new homes and most home improvements require building permits from the city or town building department. Get the building permits. Usually, contractors will obtain the permits because they know what permits are required. Ultimately, the owner is responsible for making sure the permits are obtained. Your contract should specify who is going to obtain the permits.

Building permits ensure that the plans and specifications meet the State Building Codes. Inspections during construction and after construction is completed ensure that the the minimum applicable code requirements are adhered too, and protect you.

Seeking Assistance:

Whenever you are unsure about what action to take, seek assistance. Contact your lender, local professional builders association, local building department, the Better Business Bureau, or your attorney.

If problems persist, contact the Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board, One Capitol Hill Providence, RI 02908-5859, visit our Web site: www.crb.state.ri.us, or call 401-222-1268.