Think ahead when starting projects at home

It’s that time of year again. Spring is a time for fresh ideas, new beginnings and home remodeling. The season also marks the time when homeowners across the country seek out contractors who can turn their dream homes into reality through the process of r

To commemorate May as National Home Improvement Month, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry offers homeowners a few words of advice for planning their home improvements.

Don’t wait until summer to start thinking about making changes to your homes. Finding the right design, choosing a professional contractor and securing the necessary financing for a home improvement project can sometimes take months. Bucks Mont NARI suggests that homeowners who want to start a project by summer start planning now.

With homeowners spending more time at home, demand for home improvements has increased, leaving quality contractors booked far in advance. Bucks Mont NARI recommends the following steps to kick start the process:

• Think your project through from start to finish. Careful planning of your home improvement projects will enable you to update your home, increase the value of your investment and custom- ize your living space-all for a lot less than the cost of a new home.

• Look over your property carefully. What repairs are needed? What improvements would you like to make? Think ahead and determine your future needs. Professional remodeling contractors can help you in your planning by outlining options and discussing the improvements you can make within your budget.

• Be sure to review your homeowner’s insurance policy and make adjustments for the added value of the work being done.

Most homeowners can handle routine maintenance projects and cosmetic touchups, but it’s recommended they consult with qualified professionals for larger remodeling jobs and major changes to the home’s structure.

Also be sure that you only use registered contractors. As of July 2009, all remodelers in the state of Pennsylvania had to be registered with the Office of the Attorney General. You can check on a contractor’s registration by visiting www.attorneygeneral.gov and clicking on the box for Home Improvement Consumer Information.

Additionally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency passed new regulations for contractors working in homes built before 1978. The Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires remodelers who intend to work in pre-1978 homes register their company and complete an eighthour training and certification course with an accredited trainer. The course teaches remodelers how to safely contain lead in a home as it is being disturbed and reduce exposure to residents and workers. Ask any contractor that you are working with to see their leadsafe certifications.

Don’t wait until summer to start thinking about making changes to your homes. Finding the right design, choosing a professional contractor and securing the necessary financing for a home improvement project can sometimes take months.