Hiring a professional to work on your home or residential unit can require more than finding someone with the right skills. Sometimes, a home improvement project becomes subject to various construction laws, protecting the homeowner and the contractor. These policies help keep the transaction legally sound, making contracts helpful in any scenario.
With most renovations, a home improvement contract could be appropriate to formalize the transaction. This agreement could be relevant if the project meets the following conditions:
- It is worth more than $500.
- The work involved in the project includes improvements, such as repainting, remodeling, installing new features or changing the home’s look by updating carpets, paint or flooring.
- The project involves heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical work.
- The space involved is a residential property.
In New Jersey, it is unlawful for contractors to lack an official contract for these projects, especially if they cost considerably and involve major construction work. The agreement must also specify crucial details about the project and the transaction, including payment information, timeline, itemized lists of improvements and other identifying information.
Specific measures are also necessary when adding work midway through the project’s progress. Whether adding more work or changing to more expensive options, these modifications should have a change order established in writing with the affixed signatures of the homeowner and the contractor.
Addressing legal challenges involving the contract
Construction contracts could be vital in formalizing details between the client and the contractor, especially for high-value renovations. Before pushing through with a project, consider seeking legal counsel to review the agreement, allowing either party to determine if it requires any changes. It could be impossible to guarantee that construction will go smoothly, but experienced advice can help prepare appropriately and foresee issues that could surface later.