Tasks and Fees

Home additions or renovations that may require the work of a number of different tradespeople. The cost is usually done by the square footage of the project. Typical fees range from $150 to $500 a square foot.

Where to Find One

Log on to a community site like www.angieslist.com or a membership site like the Franklin Report (www.franklinreport.com).

Before You Hire One

Visit homes where you can see the contractor's previous work. Ask references tough questions about quality and promptness. And when considering bids, make sure everyone includes taxes so all bids are comparable. You'll save yourself from invoice shock.

Common Pitfalls

Slipshod work. A disregard for scheduling. Unforeseen cost hikes. Picking the least expensive contractor and paying more in the long run when that person doesn't get the job done.

They'll Know You Mean Business When You Say...

“I'm looking for a built-in penalty clause or a liquidated-damages clause.” With one of these, if the contractor misses a deadline, you won't have to pay in full until the work is finished, or you'll get a per-day reduction in costs.