Avoiding the Con in Construction -- Repairs Done Right
New Book Aims to Protect Storm Victims from Repair Pitfalls
ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The aftermath of a natural disaster is a heartbreaking experience because treasured items are often lost. When the homeowner is ripped–off by a contractor who is hired to do repairs, it is devastating.
"We've all heard the horror stories," says Kia Ricchi, contractor and author of Avoiding the Con in Construction. "But there are steps homeowners can take to ensure a repair project goes smoothly." This is especially important when scam artists arrive en-masse after a natural disaster.
Ricchi, who educates homeowners about construction issues through her website The Contractress, offers advice from an inside-the-industry perspective.
"Before having work done on your house, it's essential to know the ins and outs of construction contracting because contracting is approximately 50% of the job and the actual construction is the other half," says Ricchi.
In her book, Ricchi teaches homeowners how to research a contractor's qualifications and character using state websites and public records. Ricchi also explains the permitting and inspection process, and how it protects the homeowner. Pitfalls such as liens, jobsite injuries, and cost overruns are explained as well as the methods to avoid them.
The Library Journal wrote on June 1, 2010: "In this extremely useful book, Ricchi, a Florida building contractor, introduces homeowners to construction contracting in understandable language. She discusses how to avoid common pitfalls and survive the entire process. The purpose here is not to defame contractors but to make readers knowledgeable customers. Planning, pricing, and many other important factors are neatly explained. This specialized book is highly recommended."
Greg Crow, former president and current chair of the National Association of State Contractor Licensing (NASCLA) Publications, says: "In construction, tools are essential. This book is a beneficial tool for both the homeowner and contractor." Douglas Harvey, executive director of Building Officials Association of Florida (BOAF), commented: "An informative and important book that every property owner should read before taking on a construction project."
Avoiding the Con in Construction has won the 2010 Independent Publisher's "Living Well" award and the Indie Excellence award. The book retails for $19.95 and can be purchased in bookstores, at Amazon, and at www.thecontractress.com. Ricchi is available for speaking events, workshops, and outreach programs.
SOURCE Kia Ricchi
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