Home Maintenance and Repair
Homeownership comes with a substantial degree of responsibility—not only the responsibility of paying for this considerable investment, but that of keeping it in working order. Much like your car, your home will come with its own specific set of needs and peculiarities. The Web sites we recommend in this guide can help you keep your home running properly and teach you how to fix some of the glitches that may turn up from time to time.
Expand All Guide SectionsNecessary Home Repairs and Maintenance
Taking some time to do a little research now about your home’s maintenance needs could save ... read more »
Do-It-Yourself Home Repair
If you’ve got the time and the skills necessary to complete a home repair project yourself, ... read more »
Hiring a Contractor for Home Repairs
Whether you’re too busy or lack the skills required to complete a home repair yourself, you want to make sure you’re employing the best people possible who will get the job done right. Use the Web sites in this section to learn what you need to know about finding and hiring a contractor.
Dulcinea's Insight
- When you’re looking up contractors online, it’s a good idea to check any professional you find against the records of the Better Business Bureau Web site, which displays any complaints consumers have made against a company or individual.
- Different states have different licensing requirements for contractors. To see what is required of a contractor in your state, and to find a licensed contractor where you live, go to the Contractor’s License Reference Site.
- Word of mouth referrals are another good way to go when you’re thinking about hiring a contractor. Once you’ve received a few recommendations from your friends or acquaintances, check for those contractors online to see if they have a Web site (preferably with photos of work they’ve done).
- If you’re not sure what contractors are available where you live, try typing “home maintenance companies” and your city name into your favorite search engine.
Dulcinea's Picks
For advice on hiring a contractor …
PBS
television explains the differences between a contractor and a subcontractor, how to choose the right contractor for your job, and the importance of getting references from potential contractors as well as going to view their work in person when possible.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
teaches you how to hire a contractor and lists some important questions you should ask potential contractors during an interview process. The site also has helpful tips for anyone whose home has been damaged by a natural disaster and is looking for a contractor to complete some repairs. Focus specifically on finding a legitimate contractor and learn to avoid the scam artists that may come out when others are in a time of need.
For help finding a contractor …
ServiceMagic
aims to connect homeowners with service professionals who can help them improve, repair or maintain their home. Start your search by clicking on the category that describes your project, and then continue answering the questions that appear to find pre-screened professionals who might best complete your project. Use of this service is free, but you must create an account to participate.
Cost of Home Improvement/Home Maintenance
The cost of home repairs can be hard to estimate with much precision, but we’ve rounded up ... read more »
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