eric

Protecting yourself when hiring a contractor. Lead paint and Worker’s Compensation.

on Mar 06 in Company Blog posted by eric

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has always been interested in protecting the consumer.  Massachusetts requires many levels of licensing and registration.  The mass.gov website has a couple of areas where consumers can verify that contractors are legitimate and certified to do their trade.  Here are a couple of links a homeowner can review to check up on things.

http://64.73.57.96/Search.aspx will show Proof of Workers Compensation.  Click on this link, then hit “I Agree”.  Just punch in a part of the company or person’s name and the town.  (Ex. Barsness, Centerville).  EASY-proof of coverage with history and dates.  A homeowner hiring a firm that does not have proper coverage is taking a big risk.

http://www.mass.gov/Elwd/docs/dos/lead_asbestos/lead/la-rpt_list_lr.pdf will show approved Massachusetts Licensed RRP contractors.  The EPA recently mandated that ALL contractors have this certification.  There are lots of rules regarding lead paint.  I can help guide you if you have questions.  However, it is amazing how few contractors are actually certified in Massachusetts.  Bring up this list and go to FIND in your browser.  You’ll see (or not see) what I mean when you don’t find some names you know on the list.  This certification is geared toward keeping families and children safe.

As usual, we are hear to help advise you.  Even if it’s just as a sounding board.

Keep well, Eric

Replacement Windows

on Oct 07 in Company Blog posted by eric

We’ve lost track over the years of the hundreds of replacement windows we have done on Cape Cod and the Islands. We’ve used several of the premium window manufacturers. One window manufacturer that is popular on the Cape, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket is Harvey Windows. I am mentioning them specifically today because they are offering a valuable energy efficiency upgrade for free. Here is a link to the information. Click HERE. Basically, though, if you add Low-E to the windows listed, they will upgrade to a package that satisfies the requirement for the $1500 energy efficiency Federal Tax Credit. It’s a fall promotion so check it out soon. We can help you navigate the options.

P.S. The Tax Credit is slated to be terminated at the end of this year.