Hiring Good Help

Don't feel guilty if you lack the time, the talent or the tools to tackle a repair project. You might feel comfortable patching your roof or hanging your own wallpaper - but you could have serious doubts about installing a bay window. If you hire a repair person, take precautions to make sure the job is done professionally, promptly, safely and economically.

> What to look for
> How to find a reputable repair person

What to look for

• Be wary of anyone who contacts you and is available immediately.
  
  
• Be suspicious of anyone who claims your repair will cost more than a similar repair on a site-built house. This is not usually the case. Don't pay for a repair person's ignorance.
  
  
• Obtain bids from at least three contractors. Bear in mind that the lowest price is not always best. Find out if the estimates include clean-up. Compare materials and completion date.
  
  
• Make sure all appropriate building permits are obtained. Otherwise, your insurance may not cover damages.
  
  
• Make sure your contractor is appropriately licensed and has a completion or performance bond. This protects your from the contractor who orders materials, installs them, but never pays the suppliers.
  
  
• Find out if your contractor has worker's compensation coverage and insurance for personal injury and property damage. Ask to see the contractor's "certificate of insurance." Find out if this insurance policy is still in effect by calling the insurance company.
  
  
• If you choose a general contractor, make sure they have experience working on manufactured homes. They are constructed differently than site-built homes. Ask how many manufactured homes they've worked on and if they can provide you with references.
  
  
• Contact your own insurance agent to determine if you will need additional coverage or a short-term rider to provide liability insurance. This is something you should seriously consider if you will be hiring a "moonlighter" who does not have appropriate insurance.
  
  
• Ask to see any pertinent warranties before you sign the contract. Determine what the warranty covers and how the company backs the warranty.
  
  
• Finally, obtain all contract specifics in writing and get a receipt for your payment.
  

To find a reputable repair person, contact:

• Friends and neighbors who've had repairs done. Is there someone they can recommend?
  
  
• The Better Business Bureau.
  
  
• Your park management.
  
  
• Manufactured home dealers.They may work with certain repair firms.
  
  
• Trades people in other professions.
  
  
• Your insurance agent. He or she may be able to suggest repair people.
  
  
• Your local building inspector's office. They may not be permitted to recommend a specific person, but they could steer you away from someone unreliable.
  
  
• Home inspection specialist.
  
  
• Local remodeler or builder association.
  
  
• Employees who work for a manufactured home manufacturer. They will sometimes do repair work on the side.