How subcontractors and suppliers can put a lien on your home even after you've paid your contractor, and how lien waivers and good records protect you.
Payments and Protection
Liens, permits, scams and disputes.
Door-to-Door Repair Scams After Storms
How home repair scams work after storms and disasters, the warning signs the FTC and FEMA describe, what to do before signing, and where to report fraud.
When a Contractor Job Goes Wrong
What to do when a contractor does poor work or vanishes: records, written demands, licensing boards, recovery funds, card disputes and small claims court.
Do You Need a Building Permit?
Which home projects usually need a permit, who should pull it, how inspections work, and the trouble unpermitted work causes when selling or insuring.