When it comes to avoiding home improvement fraud, Housing Coordinator for the City of Vicksburg Leona Stringer said that having a strategic plan in place is key to a successfully remodeled home.

“You should plan the improvements based upon the priority of the repairs, specific repairs, date and time, and your budget,” said Stringer.

Stringer gave more tips on preventing home improvement fraud at the TRIAD meeting last week. She said that it is best to select a service provider who has a good work record.

“Carefully choose the person or company you decide to work with. You should ask for qualifications, updated license and bonding numbers, references and a quote. Consider asking for 2 or 3 quotes. After choosing a quote, move to the contract.”

Stringer said that homeowners should give the contract a thorough review before moving along in the home improvements process.

“Consider legal counsel before signing a contract for commitment of services. This will allow the correct contract language if discrepancies arise before or at completion of improvements. Check city and county building officials’ offices to determine what is required by local law to have repairs done to your property and inspections of repairs. These departments should be able to verify if the contractor is licensed and bonded or if the person or company’s performance is in good standing.”

Stringer mentioned that knowing how the contract’s payments plan works is essential to making timely payments.

“The payment terms should be very clear before a contract is signed. Usually the arrangement will include payment upon completion. However, it is not unusual to pay half of the total amount before work is completed and the balance upon completion.”

Stringer stressed how a homeowner should not let friendships hinder them from conducting themselves in a professional manner.

“Do not allow personal associations to prevent you from handling the home improvement as a business transaction. There should be no exceptions.”