Home improvement is the repair, maintenance or restoration of residential real property such as a roof, repaving a driveway or remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. It can also refer to an addition or a new construction like a deck or a fence. Licensed contractors provide the best service for these jobs but you may prefer to do it yourself with some materials from a local hardware store.
The TV schedule is filled to the brim with shows about making home improvements such as Fixer Upper and This Old House, but it’s one thing to watch from the comfort of your couch and another to actually take on those renovations yourself. If you’re thinking about doing some work on your home, think about what your goals are: Are you planning to sell the place in a few years or just want a more comfortable living space? Consider which projects will add the most value to your home, and consult a realtor for advice about what kind of renovations are likely to entice buyers.
If you choose to hire a contractor for a major home improvement project, be sure to get a written contract. This should include a detailed description of the work, a timeline for completion and, for larger projects, an architect or engineer plan that specifies every detail. A deposit of no more than 1/3 of the contract price may be required before the work begins. Also, by law in the State of New York, all home improvement contractors must be licensed and insured.