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Frequently asked questions about construction projectsTable of Contents
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?Yes we are licensed by the state of Washington and by the city of Bellingham. Our WA State contractors license number is 2NDSTCI940JA. We are bonded and insured through Rice insurance. Always Check with Labor and Industries on the status of someone working on your home. Back to Top
Why is it important we use a licensed, bonded and insured contractor?The law requires complete disclosure of all work that has been done on your home, if you resell. You may be required to do work over again that has been done without permits or inspections. Non-disclosure can lead to civil action being taken against you. Also, any unpaid workers or material suppliers can put a lien on your home if they don't get paid. With unlicensed contractors you are responsible for the medical and time loss costs of employees injured while working on your project. Shop Smart: is a link with even more information on this subject if the above didn't scare you enough. Back to Top
How do we check on the status of a builder or contractor?A check on a builder or contractor can be done in Washington through Labor and Industries. You can check if someone's license, insurance, and bond are current as well as any summons or complaints that were filed. You can call a local branch or click on the following link: http://www.lni.wa.gov/TradesLicensing/Contractors/ContractorDatabase/default.asp Back to Top
What are some other ways to check on a builder or contractor?It is always smart to get a list of references from anyone who will be working on your home or business. A list of references should include past customers, a supplier reference, and a bank reference. It is important to call people on the list not just read it. Here are some suggested questions to ask people from the reference list. Looking at some past work performed by the builder or contractor is also recommended. Back to Top
What is included in a free estimate?We will typically come to your home, or review your plans, to see the scope of the project that you are interested in having us work on. We then take measurements, if required, to get the information we need for an estimate. At this point we work up an approximate price on the materials and labor needed to complete the project. Back to Top
Do you offer a design service?Yes, we do offer a design service, if needed, as well as working with local designers and architects. We do charge for drawings that are required to complete your project. Accurate drawings are required for the permit process in both the city limits and the county areas. Basic drawings are usually included in the free estimate or small projects. Back to Top
What happens after we receive your estimate?After you receive an estimate from us it is time to review the information of how we plan on doing the work and the materials needed. We then work with you to make decisions on materials and items you want to change, delete, or add to your project. Depending on the scope of the project this can be a very fast or lengthy process. After we define the materials and labor required, a contract is written to verify what we will supply and the work we will perform. Back to Top
What happens if we change our minds on materials or the scope of a project after we sign a contract?We will do a change order with you to show the revised cost and schedule of the project. There may be a re-stock fee on items we have to return. Some specialty items that are special orders can not be returned. The more details that can be sorted out before a project begins, the better we can serve you. Back to Top
How does a payment schedule work?We take a small payment (usually $100.00 to 500.00) at the signing of the contract to show a commitment on your part so that we can set a start date. The next payments are tied with items in your contract and are shown in the payment schedule of the contract. Payments are due in full at the completion of your project. Back to Top
What should we expect in a contract and at signing?You should expect a well written contract that verifies the materials you have chosen and lists the work that is required. It is very important for you to keep a copy for your records. At signing of any job over $1,000.00 a disclosure of the WA State Lien Law, a Lien release form, an asbestos disclosure, and a lead paint disclosure and brochure will be signed for and given to you Back to Top
Once work begins on our project will your carpenters be pulled off to another job?We will stay on your project and see it through completion as long as we have materials to work with. On the very rare occasion, emergencies do arise and our carpenters need to help past customers. If this happens while we are working on your project, you will be notified before they leave. Back to Top
What should we expect for clean-up during our project?At the end of every day the project site should be swept and free of debris, or piled in a safe location, with the tools stacked neatly if left on site. We try our best to keep dust and dirt to a minimum by using tarps and plastic barriers as needed for the various projects. It is next to impossible to eliminate all dust, so, be prepared for some fine dust in areas directly near the project. Back to Top
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