Expert Advice When You Need It Most
Contractors: tips for your home improvement and remodeling contractsWritten by: Chad William Koplien Reputation Level 12
Posted over 3 years ago. Applies to Wisconsin, 41 helpful votes, 0 comments
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Read this Wisconsin Lawyer Article on the Wisconsin Home Improvement CodeAn article written by a respected Wisconsin attorney, Mark R. Hinkston on the Home Improvement Code, entitled, Revisiting Wisconsin's Home Improvement Code, is found in the Wisconsin Lawyer, Vol. 76, No. 10 (October 2003). This article can be located through an Internet search, and is an excellent resource for information on the home improvement code as it relates to your contracts. 2
Review your contractYou need to have a written contract. Bids and oral agreements don't fly. Your contract needs to address the following: (1) a list of all Required Permits should be referenced in the contract; (2) the full name of your company and the name of the salesperson negotiating the contract; (3) a provision which states that all changes orders and delays in the work to be performed are to be in a writing signed by both parties; (4) a full description of the project and a list of all materials to be used, including brand, size, model, and quantity; (5) the total price of the project including any finance charges if applicable; (6) a specific start and completion date; (6) a warranty statement; (7) if you solicited the owner, the contract should provide the owner with the right to cancel. 3
Review the Home Improvement Code itselfI understand that laws and regulations do not make fun and light reading. This one is worth your time. You can download the Code in the link below. 4
Review the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection BrochureThis informative brochure summarizes the Code, and is located in the link below. 5
Review the links below for other tipsI have linked a few of my other Avvo guides which might be helpful in running your business and dealing with issues in the home improvement construction industry. Additional ResourcesThe Wisconsin Home Improvement Code is a scary, scary law which imposes HUGE liabilities on contractors in the home improvement and remodeling industry. Plaintiff's lawyers are beginning to farm this code for claims. Home improvement contractors need to understand the code and make sure that their contracts and performance under the code is in complete compliance. Please review the links to web articles and legal resources below from other excellent authors on the issues discussed above. Related Questions1 Attorney answers: 
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