I worked as a plans examiner for a local muncipality for many years. Anyone who contracts to build a house should do the following to protect him or herself.
1. Make sure the contractor is a State certified building contractor. This can be checked with the state department that has authority over contractors. Once you have established the contractor is licensed and insured check for any complaints and/or actions against him.
2. Ask the local building department for approved or current permits they hve for the builder. Ask to see the plans and inspection records. If public record laws allow you to see the owners names it is a good idea to contact them for references.
3. The building department records should show the subs the contractor uses. Contact the approriate licensing agency to check license status and any complaints filed.
4. Make sure the bank has a policy of not releasing draws until an independent inspection of the work has been done. Nothing worse than finding all the payments have been made to the contractor when only the flooring has been finished. Also make sure the bank has received proof the subcontractors were paid.
Also re above: Know the lein laws of your State. In Florida if the Contractor fails to pay the subcontractors the homeowner is responsible. Yeah big rip off.
5. Find out what building code your muncipality is under. The local library should have a copy. Familiarize yourself with it so you can spot errors if they occur.
6. Visit the building site as often as possible.
7. Know the lein laws of your State. In Florida if the Contractor fails to pay the subcontractors the homeowner is responsible. Yeah big rip off.
8. Please remember the house is inspected by the local building department for code only not for workmanship. Hire your own independent inspector for workmanship. Have items that come under workmanship as part of your contract with the builder. That will give you recourse if the contractor fails to meet your agreement.
Can't be repeated enough. BTTT.