Showing posts with label contractors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label contractors. Show all posts

Monday, June 27, 2011

More Commercial Remodeling FAQ

What is green remodeling?
Green remodeling allows homeowners the opportunity to combine money saving and earth-sustaining green concepts into their homes. Green remodeling gives consideration to indoor air quality; energy and resource conservation; material waste reduction; and using more environmentally friendly products.

Should I remodel green?
It’s much easier on the earth than traditional commercial remodeling. It also tends to result in lower energy costs, around 30-50%, and provides a healthier home to live in.

What are some remodeling ideas?
You have to think about not only what you need, but what you want. Decide on the changes you want made, and ask friends, family and customers for input. Create a prioritized list based off of this and what you find in magazines.

When is it time to remodel?
Whenever you think your business could use it. Maybe the green and gold adorning your restaurant walls are no longer trendy, or customers have to stand in line to use the restroom. You have to be the one to decide a remodel is need.

Do I need to shut my business down during a remodel?
Not at all! We will work around your business to get the job done.

Ready to get your Minneapolis commercial remodeling project underway? Contact Titus Contracting today by visiting www.TitusContracting.com

Monday, June 20, 2011

Commercial Remodeling FAQ

Here are some of the more common questions we get about commercial remodeling:

What’s the difference between the big retail chains and remodeling companies?
A lot of stores, like Lowes and Home Depot, now offer remodeling services. However, when you hire a remodeling company, you’ll get experts who know how to handle things that appear during the project. They also have greater flexibility in getting the job done and will only use the highest quality projects.

How many estimates should I get?
The rule of thumb is three, however, you should research as much as you can. Find out what the differences are between all these companies. If all the bids are within 10-15% each other, choose within your budget and whatever remodeling contractor with whom you’re most comfortable.

How long should my project take?
This question will depend on the project’s size and scope, and whatever is found during construction. Ask the contractor for a reasonable timeframe, but understand unforeseen circumstances can, and most likely will, happen.

How important is it for my contractor to be licensed and insured?
It’s probably the most important aspect. Many states and municipalities require contractors to be licensed, so be sure to ask prospective contractors for proof of licensing and insurance.

Shouldn’t I just do the project myself?
Sure. If you enjoy physical work, are patient, are able to handle unforeseen circumstances, willing to deal with possible stress, know the steps and can handle it by yourself, among other issues. Think of what you’re getting into before trying to go it alone.

Need assistance with your Minneapolis commercial remodeling project? Get in touch with Titus Contracting by visiting www.TitusContracting.com

Monday, May 23, 2011

Commercial Remodeling Ideas for Restaurants from Titus Contracting

When it comes to giving your restaurant a commercial remodeling overhaul, you don’t want to take any missteps. You want your restaurant remodeling project to go seamlessly, as your business is your livelihood. At Titus Contracting, serving the Twin Cities MN areas, we encounter many clients who know they need a commercial construction overhaul, but are unsure where to go. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

Focus on ambience
While the furniture is important, the ambience of your restaurant can mean the difference between success and failure. Customers want to eat in a place that’s warm and inviting, not a place that’s cold and withdrawn. The ambience affects everything, right down to how the food tastes.

Keep your design in line with your expectations
If you are serving Italian cuisine, it’s probably not best to have mounted wildlife adorning your restaurant’s walls. If you’re unclear as where to go, then hiring a professional decorator might be the best solution, as this will keep you on your timeframe.

Don’t settle for what’s trendy
You want your restaurant to be modern, but you’ll also want it to be timeless. Don’t try to do whatever one else is doing. You need to set your business apart from your competitors, and the best way to go about this is to create something timeless.

If you need a professional remodeling contractor for your Twin Cities business, Titus Contracting can help. Visit us today at www.TitusContracting.com

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Remodeling Tips from Titus Contracting


Summertime means remodeling time. Homeowners all over the country soon will be getting ready to embark on that dream home remodeling project, tearing out old board and painting new drywall. However, it’s often easy for a residential remodel to turn into a nightmare. Avoid this by following the tips below: 

  • Doing it yourself can save you on labor fees, but one mistake could mean even more than you might have paid. Professional remodeling contractors like Titus Contracting are trained to avoid these costly errors.
  • One of the ways to decrease costs is by product choices. Sure, the look of that flooring is great, but can you find a similar product at a cheaper cost?
  • Plan ahead. This is often forgotten by so many who attempt to go it alone. Planning ahead with a budget will reduce stress over the project’s life. Every little details counts, so plan it all, from appliances to wall plates.
  • Price is an option that must be considered, but don’t forget about value and quality when making a choice.
  • Be creative. There is often more than one way to complete a project. Talk to your remodeling contractor about different options.
  • Moving windows is not a money saver. Attempt to keep all windows in place.

There’s no shame in needing help. If your Minneapolis home needs some spice, get in touch with us by visiting www.TitusContracting.com.

Monday, April 18, 2011

What Customers are Saying about Titus Contracting

At Titus Contracting, we aim to garner the trust and respect of our customers. When it comes to home improvement & design in the Twin Cities MN areas, we want to be people’s first and only choice.

Here’s what one customer had to say about her business remodeling project done by Titus Contracting:

I would just like to extend an enormous thank you to Scott and Lee at Titus Contracting for the recent job he completed for me.  As a business owner, I am particular about every detail pertaining to my company, including its location and building.  Recently, I decided to purchase, completely demolish and then reconstruct a new commercial space, all within roughly 3 weeks.  Because of the extremely tight deadline, I expected many of those very important details to be overlooked and dismissed by the contractor.  However, once Scott and his team got to work, I was presently surprised.

Not only did Scott go above and beyond to complete the build-out by the deadline, but he also left no detail untouched, and made sure his team operated in the same way.  By the end of the project, the team and I had become like family; people who invested much blood, sweat and tears together to achieve my dream space.  I truly believe that if it were not for the constant communication, dedication, and overall business and interpersonal skills of Scott and his team, this project would have never been completed to perfection on time.

After everything was said and done, I can't imagine completing this project without Scott and Titus.  They truly exceeded my expectations; and put me at ease as a business owner who is deeply invested in her company and its surroundings.  For any of my future projects, I definitely won't have to think twice about selecting a contractor.  I am truly a customer for life.

Thank you again.
~ Connie Steckling, Owner D&A Talent

Let us earn your respect. Call us today at 952.746.7817 for all of your commercial remodeling and residential remodeling needs.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Titus Contracting Wants Your Feedback

Did you have Titus Contracting handle your Twin Cities’ home remodel or commercial renovation? If so, we want to hear from you.

Go to www.TitusContracting.com now to give us your remodeling project feedback. We use the input of all our customers to gauge how well we’re doing our job at commercial construction and other services.

Let us know how we did by visiting www.TitusConstruction.com today.

Monday, April 4, 2011

What Customers are Saying about Titus Contracting


At Titus Contracting, we aim to garner the trust and respect of our customers. When it comes to home improvement & design in the Twin Cities MN areas, we want to be people’s first and only choice.

Here’s what one customer had to say about their home remodeling project done by Titus Contracting: 

I wanted to drop you a quick note thanking you not only for the quality of the work you recently completed on my house, but also for the professional and timely manner in which it was handled.  Bids were accurate, the timeline was reasonable and adhered to, and the craftsmanship is first rate.  The results transformed a tired den, hallway, laundry/bath, and garage, into warm, modern living spaces.

While I’d never met you, Lee, before this project, I found your knowledge and skills what I would hope for in an experienced, successful contractor.  On the other hand, Scott, this recent project went as smoothly as when I first met you on my previous kitchen re-design in 2007.  As you know, I find you to be not only a trusted project manager but an insightful creative consultant.  That project required a lot of thinking outside-the-box and, together, we crafted a kitchen of both high function and aesthetic grace that has received many compliments since.  This recent project realized similar stunning results.

I also want to add a comment about your tilemaster, Mark.  In both the kitchen project and this basement re-do, Mark’s tilework moved well beyond cutting and pasting into what I can only call the realm of art.  Beautiful workmanship.  Hang on to him!

My next project, hopefully, isn’t too far away and I will likely make only one call: the call to Titus.  Thanks again!

~ Doug Powers

Let us earn your respect. Call us today at 952.746.7817 for all of your commercial remodeling and residential remodeling needs.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Spring is the Time to Start Thinking about Your Commercial Construction Project from Titus Contracting

Consumers will soon be out in full force to take advantage of the spring weather. Is your Twin Cities business ready? Do you an interior or exterior that represents what your company is about? Or do you need a commercial renovation?

If you’re unsure as to the answers, then let Titus Contracting help.

The look of your business’ interior represents your company. If your cabinetry or tile is outdated, customers will think your business is behind the times. A great interior can result in great business.

You can count on Titus Contracting to bring your establishment’s look into the modern age. We’ll give your business a renovation that is accented with upscale flair.

Call us today at 952.746.7817 or visit www.TitusContracting.com to see what we can do for your Twin Cities business.

Monday, March 21, 2011

What Customers are Saying about Titus Contracting

At Titus Contracting, we strive to earn the trust and respect of all our customers. When it comes to home improvement & design in the Twin Cities MN metro, we want to be people’s first choice.

Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what one customer had to say about their multi-home commercial construction project:

Dear Lee and Scott,

I want to thank you and the Titus team for taking over our multi-home project this year.  As you know, some of the homes were in various states of disrepair and your team stepped up and took care of everything each project required.  I really appreciate how you have taken control of every piece of each project, from beginning to end, all the while keeping me apprised of the progress.

Titus creatively has really helped Osprey when it came to the repair and rehab of the 25 homes.  You have truly been delightful in your work effort and delivery of the project completions.  I would gladly recommend Titus Contracting to any home project, large or small.

~ Scott Grausnick

Let us earn your respect. Contact us today at 952.746.7817 for all of your commercial remodeling and residential remodeling needs.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Titus Contracting Makes Commercial Building Projects Stand Out


A nice, carefully put together home is important, but many tend to forget about sprucing up the look of their businesses.

Titus Contracting guarantees that we will make your MN commercial construction project stand out from all the rest. Does your Minneapolis office, St. Paul restaurant or Twin Cities fitness center need a face lift? Is your business atmosphere stuck in a bygone era?

We can fix all that. We will modernize your establishment’s to bring it into the present, and you can count on us to renovate and accent your business with an upscale flair.

Titus Contracting are award-winning Savage MN remodeling contractors who guarantee to do the job of which you’ve only dreamed.

Call us today 952.746.7817 or visit us at www.TitusContracting.com to get a FREE ESTIMATE so we can get started right away!

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Titus Contracting Builds Excellence Fueled By Your Dreams

How does Titus Contracting build projects that win awards? How have we grown into one of the best Minnesota remodeling contractors in the business?

It starts first with the customer. Then, we work hard to make sure you’re happy and the work we’re doing suits you and your needs. All the awards in the world can’t compete with customer satisfaction.

We’ll review your Twin Cities remodeling project’s details with you to identify your goals and preferences. We then define the project in terms of needs, wants and wishes as the preliminary budget is drafter.

After this is complete, a designer will meet with you to take measurements and discuss the finished project and overall look. This allows us to come back to you with a scope of work and investment range.

We review your St. Paul building project or Minneapolis remodeling project together to decide the parts that will be included in your design concept work. This is formalized with a signed agreement to ensure we have a complete and understand, and then the design begins!

We start with the conceptual plans, which include floor plans, elevations and 3D color perspectives to allow you to see and feel what the finished Shapokee bathroom remodeling or other project will look like. We then meet again so we can complete the architectural drawings and make sure we have your dream captured on the prints.

An open house is then conducted with all the subcontractors and material suppliers. You can ask questions to them about your Lakeville tile installation or MN home renovations, and vice versa. We will do our best to prevent any potential issues, as well as accept any additional ideas.

While we do this, you’ll be out selecting all the finishes, like carpet, tile, cabinets and counter tops. The bids collected are presented to you and together, we fine tune all specifics.

A schedule is finalized and we are ready to get your MN commercial construction project underway!


Call us today 952.746.7817 or visit us at www.TitusContracting.com to get a FREE ESTIMATE so we can get started right away!

Monday, December 20, 2010

See What Our Customers Have to Say...

"Thank you for all the wonderful work you have done throughout our building this year. On more than one occasion, residents have stopped by the office to share how impressed they are by your work and the professionalism of your staff. You have been so generous with your time and talents, and have positively impacted our residents' experience at Edina Towers. You truly make a difference in our community, and I look forward to our continued work together.

Thank you again for all the outstanding work you have done for us all year, we look forward to continuing our working relationship in 2011."

Regards,
Juliana Leigh Young
Edina Towers Property Manager

View more of Titus Contracting's client testimonials on our website.

Monday, December 13, 2010

See What Our Customers Have to Say...

"I recently moved my office to a new location in Eagan. I needed the new space to have a build out completed in a short time, so that my clinic operations would not be interrupted. Titus Contracting was recommended to me by my real estate agent. After explaining my situation to Titus, they said they would do their best to finish the project within 5-6 weeks. I told them that I needed the new space ready within 5 weeks, otherwise, I would not have time to set up my new office and my business would be interrupted. Titus Contracting finished the project in 4 weeks, which gave me plenty of time to make a smooth transition into my new office. They did a fine job in a short amount of time. I would recommend Titus Contracting to anyone who is in need of a reliable and efficient contractor."

- Dr. Jay Pettis, Pettis Chiropractic, LLC

For an insight as to what to expect from Titus Contracting, visit Titus Contracting, LLC to view more testimonials!

Replacing Windows & Home Remodeling...

What Type of Window is Best for Northern Climates?

Windows are a major component of a home architecturally and functionally. Not only will the exterior style of the house be affected by the size, shape and style of windows, but these factors will also determine the overall look and feel of the home once inside. There are several details which need to be considered before selecting windows for a remodel or new construction.

The type of windows installed will directly affect the comfort level of the home owner and the amount of the monthly utility bills. The majority of windows available on the market are energy star compliant, but this does not necessarily mean a much leaner heating and cooling bill or electric bill. Other factors which will increase the overall efficiency of a window are whether it is double-paned or triple-paned, has a low-e glazing or from what type of material it is constructed.

When selecting new windows, the home owner should not necessarily base their decision strictly on the cost of each window. Of course monetary constraints will play a large part when determining the type of windows, but the total expense may be much higher than the home owner realizes.

Larger windows and bay windows will increase the amount of light admitted into the home. A house with darker hard wood flooring, tile or carpet would require larger windows to offset the expense of turning on lamps for artificial light. Bay windows will also "open up" the overall feel of the room making it seem larger than actual size.

No matter the size of the window, it is important for the window to be double-paned with an inert gas, such as argon, sandwiched between each pane. The gap between each pane of glass will help to insulate the interior from the extreme temperatures of summer and winter. In northern climates, such as Minneapolis, Minnesota, the home owner may opt for triple-paned windows. The additional gap and layer of glass will further increase the insulative qualities of the window.

The other major attribute of a window which will directly affect the energy efficiency is whether it is aluminum, vinyl or wood clad window. Aluminum is excellent at transferring hot or cold temperatures so it is not the best choice for minimizing heat loss. One of the most efficient constructions will actually be a wood clad in vinyl. Straight wooden frames will be more economical; however will require the most maintenance. The maintenance free external vinyl combined with an interior wood frame will provide a beautiful look on the exterior and the interior.

Because there are hundreds of standard and custom-sized dimensioned windows, it is recommended to rely on the experience of the remodeling company, such as Titus Contracting, LLC. Particular brands and series of windows will be better than others. Again it is important to rely on the contractor's experience and knowledge. It is also advisable for the home owner to conduct their own independent research.

For more information on windows, remodels and home additions contact Titus Contracting, LLC.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Titus Contracting, LLC. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Check Out Your Contractor, As Well As Your Roofing and Siding Product Warranty

The biggest investment any individual is likely to make is the home in which the family lives. It then stands to reason that the homeowner should take an active interest in maintaining that home. The two most important parts of the home are the siding and roof.

The siding plays a key role in protecting the frame of the house, every occupant within the interior and the contents. Without the siding being in good condition to help shield and repel insects, rain or snow, rot, mold or fungus, it is only a matter of time before serious problems occur. Serious problems translate to much greater expense than just the basic home maintenance.

Traditionally the materials used in home construction were brick or wood siding. Today, there are several various options which serve as well or better than brick and wood. Cement fiber siding is one of the many types of extremely durable and beautiful siding which has gained in popularity.

The advantage of cement fiber board is that while it possesses the look of actual wood siding, it stands up to the elements and time just as well as cement. In fact it is quite likely that once the existing siding has been replaced with the cement fiber siding, the home owner will be outlived by the siding and may never need to replace any portion of the siding in their lifetime.

The other major component of a house is the roof. Roofing is the integral part of the entire home. Much like siding, without a solid and durable roof above, the interior contents of the home and walls will be destroyed in short order. Most roofing materials come with some measure of warranty. Depending upon the manufacturer and quality of the roofing material, it is common to have warranties of 15, 20, or 30 years.

Two of the most commonly installed types of roofing have been shingles and aluminum panels. Each has specific advantages and abilities which can benefit the family, as well as saving some expense on the utility bill. One may be better than the other depending upon in what region of the country the home is located. A local professional roofing contractor should have the specifics as to which type of roofing is preferred for the home owner's locale and why.

The home owner needs to be aware of the limitations of the product warranty. While the product may be of the finest quality, if the roofing or siding is not installed properly, even the product with the longest warranty can fail. Because of this, it is extremely important to make sure that the contractor is a certified installer endorsed by the particular brand of roofing manufactured. Most manufacturers of roofing shingles and other roofing materials have certification requirements which the installer must complete in order to receive an endorsement. The home owner should be able to rest easier knowing that a quality product is going hand in hand with a quality installation.

To learn more about Titus Contracting and their design process, visit Titus Contracting or call 952-746-7817 today.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Titus Contracting, LLC. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Monday, November 29, 2010

MADAC Award Winning Project

Titus Contracting constructed a project that was chosen for the MADAC award through the Minnesota Multi-Housing Awards!

Titus Contracting is a full-service remodeling company offering both residential and commercial construction. Additionally, Titus Contracting provides cabinets, tile installation, and finish carpentry in Savage, Lakeville, and the Twin Cities, MN.

Here is just a sneak peak of the project chosen for the MADAC award!


To view more photos of this project visit Titus Contracting.

The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Titus Contracting. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Questions to Help Hire the Right Bathroom Remodeler

The bathroom has finally grated on your last nerve. The 80's brown and orange has got to go. If you have reached a similar point, it can be very intimidating to decide on a bathroom remodel contractor. The last thing you want to do is discover that you have hired a sub-par professional. Not hiring a quality contractor can lead to the job costing more than estimated, missed job completion deadlines and much frustration.

To avoid this, be sure to interview several contractors. This will allow you to get a good feel for what is standard in the industry in your area and to become comfortable with the person you decide to hire.

Here are several questions you might want to ask during the interview process.

1) "How long have you been remodeling bathrooms?" This question is similar to "How long have you been in business?" but gets at the heart of the experience a particular contractor might have. He or she may have recently started a new business but has years of experience in the industry. Just because the business is new does not indicate that the job will be done poorly. However, it is probably best to ask both questions and steer clear of new businesses if you can. They may be good at the work but business issues can distract and cause delays.

2) "Are you insured?" This is a big one. If something goes wrong with your job you want to be sure that you can recoup losses and you are protected.

3) "Do you pull the appropriate permits and is this cost covered in the estimate?" You want to make absolutely sure you have proper permitting for your job. Not having permits can cause you to run afoul of government agencies and cause headaches. Making sure the costs are in the bid ensures you don't receive add on "surprises" at job completion.

4) "Do you provide references?" This is a great way to help select an bathroom remodel contractor. By talking to previous customers, you can get a feel for the kind of work the contractor does and how he or she conducts himself during the job. You can find out if the workers were rude, cleaned up the job site poorly, played loud music, etc. These might not impact the quality of the job but they can be very frustrating and are good to know up front. Ask for several references from recent jobs.

These are just a few questions to ask. In the end, however, listen to your intuition and make sure you are 100% comfortable with the company you hire. Ask lots of questions and wait a day or two before signing a contract to give you time to reflect.

If you follow these guidelines you will much more likely to hire the right contractor for your bathroom remodel. Happy remodeling!

For additional information on bathroom remodeling visit Titus Contracting.

Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Titus Contracting. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Monday, November 15, 2010

The Dos and Don'ts of Hiring a Home Contractor

If you are in need of having some work done on your home and don't have time to do it yourself, then perhaps it would be wise to hire a general contractor to take care of all the details for you. After all, a good building contractor will help you make the best decisions for how to get a job done, and will then line up the workmen to do the job.

Of course, not all home contractors are the same. Some of them have specialized areas while others are qualified to handle an abundance of fields. But regardless of the type of job you need done, you want to be sure that the contractor you hire is trustworthy and that you and the contractor understand what the job will entail. To make the job go as smoothly as possible, start by having a good contractor. To help you determine what qualifications to look for, look for theses dos and don'ts of hiring a contractor.

Do:

  • Talk to friends, family and co-workers to get recommendations and references.
  • Check with the BBB or Angieslist.com for any complaints or comments.
  • Interview at least 3 contractors and get a written estimate from each one. Be sure each contractor lists the same work so you can make a fair comparison.
  • Check licensing and registration requirements for your state and find out if the contractor adheres to them.
  • Be sure the contractor and any subcontractors are licensed and insured. Check with your own insurance provider to find out if you are covered for any injury or damage that may occur.
  • Get the name of the suppliers and ask to see if the contractor pays their bills on time.
  • Insist on a written contract that states exactly what work will be done, the quality of the materials, warranties, timetables, names of any subcontractors, total price, and payment schedule.
  • Keep in mind, that most states gives you 3 business days to cancel without penalty, though you will be responsible for any benefits already received.
Don'ts:

  • Make a final payment or sign a final release until you are satisfied with the work and know that all those involved have been paid.
  • Pay up front for the entire job.
  • Be pressured into making an immediate decision.
  • Hire a contractor that tells you that the job will be a demonstration.
  • Hire a contractor that who offers discounts for finding other customers.
  • Hire someone who can only be reached by leaving messages with an answering service.
  • Be impressed with an unusually long guarantee.
Be Wary of:

  • Contractors who have vehicles with out of state plates or drive an unmarked vehicle.
  • Those who offer a bid that is completely out of sync with the others; typically you will want to steer away from the lowest bid and the highest bid.
  • Hiring the person who "just happens" to have materials left over from a job or who solicited the job from a door to door neighborhood canvassing.

For more information on contracting and design process visit Titus Contracting or call 952-746-7817.

Monday, November 8, 2010

What to Look for When Hiring Home Contractor

Whether you are planning a basic remodel of your master bedroom, adding a family room or building a house, one of the most important aspects of the job is hiring a competent, reliable, and trustworthy contractor. When you hire a contractor, it is vital that it be someone you feel comfortable with, since you will likely be spending a fair amount of time discussing the work to be done. Keeping this in mind, you will want to take your time choosing a general contractor. Talk to those you know for recommendations, contact your local home builders association or make inquiries at your home improvement store to get a list of the contractors in your area who meet your needs.

Before Hiring a Contractor

Once you have made some inquiries and have a list of contractors, you will want to do a little research before you schedule the first interview.

  • Verify that the contractor is registered with your state's contractors association.
  • Check out the contractor online with sites like Angies List; call your local building department or the BBB to find out if there have been any reports about the contractors you are considering.
  • Find out how long the contractor has been in business and if there are any pending or past actions against a contractor's bond.
  • As you make the calls, be sure that you have a clear idea of what the project will be. After all, if you don't know what you want to have done or are unable to clearly explain it to the contractor, it will be much more difficult to find someone willing to work for you.
Queries for Interviewing a General Contractor

Once you have the scope of the project determined, you will want to start talking to prospective contractors. As part of the interview, there are several items that should be discussed.

  • Ask for references and then check them out. If at all possible, ask the other homeowners if you can see the work. Also, see if you can drop by a current jobsite to see work in progress.
  • Ask for references of suppliers that the contractor works with and check out their payment record. If they are behind on any bills, find another contractor!
  • Ask for a copy of the contractor's insurance policy and make sure you understand what is covered.
  • Ask that the contractor post a performance bond for the entire cost of the project if it is more than $6,000.
  • Try to anticipate any inconveniences, variables, potential weather concerns, etc. and come to an agreement, in writing, on how they will be handled. A good contractor will include clean up of the job site as part of the job as it their responsibility to leave your property neat and clean!
  • Evaluate all aspects of the job-scope of work, product and material warranties, references, time frames and price- get everything in writing and do not sign anything until there is agreement on all aspects of the job.

For additional information on the topic of home improvements and general contractors visit Titus Contracting LLC.

Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Titus Contracting LLC. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Monday, November 1, 2010

EPA Lead Certification

Contractors who perform work in housing built before 1978 must be trained and certified to comply with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) regulation. The rule applies to any contractor who might disturb lead paint to, for example, service behind-the-wall plumbing.


The EPA’s RRP regulation affects a wide range of contracting firms, including renovators, painters, electricians, plumbers, maintenance firms, and others. It applies to pre-1978 housing and “child-occupied facilities,” which would include childcare centers and schools.


Both individual “renovators” and contracting firms must be EPA-certified, noted Michelle Price, chief of the agency’s Lead, Heavy Metal and Inorganic Branch. Even contractors with previous lead abatement training must be trained and certified under this new program. This new program will allow contractors to help reduce childhood lead poisoning by working lead-safe. Contractors who fail to comply will risk penalties of up to $37,500 per day as well as potential private lawsuits.


Titus Contracting is a proud to announce that we are Lead Certified. For more information on this certification you may visit the Environmental Protection Agency website or contact Titus Contracting directly at 952-746-7817 or online at TitusContracting.com