Frequently Asked Questions

 
 

ARE YOU LICENSED AND INSURED?

YES! We are licensed with the state and possess a valid unrestricted MA Construction Supervisor license (CS-114013)and MA Home Improvement Contractors License (#200905).

We carry commercial general liability insurance, commercial auto policies with commercial snow plowing endorsement/coverage as well as workers compensation insurance.

DO YOU PULL BUILDING PERMITS?

YES! We pull permits for all projects that require them as outlined in the International Residential Code and International Building Code books.

This is an extremely important step that protects you, the home or business owner. If you have unpermitted work completed on your home or business, not only are you liable for potential fines, but most insurance companies will not provide coverage should a loss occur due to unpermitted work, leaving you on the hook for repairs and any litigation that may arise.

DO YOU PROVIDE CONTRACTS? WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT TERMS?

Yes, all projects receive a standard issue contract provided by the state of Massachusetts consumer affairs along with a detailed scope of work breaking down everything that is included in the contract price.

We typically have payments broken down and made payable at the start of construction, completion of rough inspections, and a retainer amount payable at the conclusion of the project and final sign offs from all building departments required.

I GOT MULTIPLES ESTIMATES, WHY ARE THE PRICES SO DIFFERENT?

There are many factors that go into pricing a remodeling or addition/new build project including scope of work, materials to be used, quality of work, and proper licensing/insurance.

The largest factor affecting estimate pricing is the scope of work. If contractors interpret the project differently or include/exclude certain tasks, it can lead to variations in estimates. Some contractors may provide more comprehensive estimates that cover a wider scope, while others might offer a more limited scope of services. A common tactic used by lower-tier contractors is to limit the scope of work in the contract, knowing that additional work will be required to finish the project that they can bill for later.

A contractor using premium materials that increase building efficiency and better warranties will have a higher price than lower tiered products. We are firm believers in spending a bit extra up front to have a better constructed project that will carry a better warranty.

The best way to inquire about quality of work is to ask for references and actually speak to them.

Finally, when a contractor carries all of the proper and required licenses and insurances, the prices will be higher than your average handyman or “fly by night” contractor.

DO YOU USE SUBCONTRACTORS OR SELF PERFORM?

We self perform a large portion of the project - including demolition, framing, doors and windows, drywall, painting, trim, tile, and flooring.

As required by law, we hire licensed plumbers and electricians for their respective scope of work. We typically use the same subcontractors on every project, developing a relationship that makes them feel like part of our company.

DO YOU OFFER A WARRANTY?

YES, we offer a 1 year warranty on labor and materials, unless a manufacturer provides a longer timeline for warranty. For example, our shower waterproofing system offers a lifetime leak free warranty. Our composite deck boards boasts warranties on the product for up to 50 years.