It's worth the time to do a little homework on your contractor.

By Chris McGinnis

Area contractors are busy, and you as a consumer must do your homework if you're considering a remodeling or building project.

"It's important for people to check out their contractor," Chaffee County Building Inspector Verl Curtis said.

"You wouldn't believe how many people come in and don't know much about who they've hired."

Curtis warns that the county recently has heard from a number of people who are have been taken advantage of by people they've contracted for building work.

In Colorado, only electricians and plumbers are required to be licensed. They are required to carry their license with them, and it is wise to ask to see it.

That leaves a full range of home improvement people who do not need to carry a license, and it is up to you to check their credentials as carefully as possible.

Curtis said if a contractor has employees, they must have workmen's compensation and should be able to provide you proof thereof.

Contractors should also be able to supply evidence of property and personable liability insurance.

It is also in your interest to ask for references and visit construction projects a potential contractor has done recently.

Ask questions - was the contractor on-time, did they do what they were asked?

Curtis said records in the Chaffee County building department are public record and available for review.

An interested party can come in to the office an inquire about previous building projects. Records of a construction project will verify it was done under permit, and in what manner the project was completed.