Before you call contractors for estimates, prepare yourself. Write down all the questions you may have, the most you are willing to spend, materials styles and colors you like, other homes you have seen and any time frame that may interfere with your schedule.

Never pay the full contract price until every little detail is finished and you receive a lien waiver for all labor and materials, including sub-contractors. Do not settle for an oral agreement on any of the work to be performed.

Price, be careful about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Request the name of the person who will be in charge on your project. Be sure cleanup is included in your contract, including ground area and gutters. If there is an arbitration statement in your contract, ask to see it. If complaints arise, the contractor agrees to settle disputes through binding arbitration. Without this agreement, you have no recourse.

Once your project is underway, pay close attention to the details of the work. If your contract calls for 30 lb felt look at the felt labels to be sure. New vents and pipe jacks, new chimney flashing? Make sure you are getting what you are paying for.