Home Improvement
What you need to know
When contracting for home repairs or improvement, problems can arise between home owners and contractors. This might include complaints of substandard work, overcharging, or failure to complete a job. If you encounter such an issue and are not able to satisfactorily resolve it directly with the contractor, contact the Division of Consumer Protection.
Contractors in Utah are required to obtain a license and liability insurance. You can verify a contractor’s license by contacting the Division of Professional Licensing or by using their Licensee Lookup and Verification System.
Important Tips
- Be sure to obtain a written agreement which includes a price estimate, summary of the work to be done and materials to be used, the day the work is to start and estimated completion date, responsibility for cleanup, and any guarantees or warranty. If applicable, you should also obtain a written agreement outlining any financing and credit terms including payment schedules.
- Check if contractors are required to obtain a business license from your city or local jurisdiction. If so, be sure your contractor has obtained one.
- Always get estimates for a job from multiple contractors who are recommended by a friend or family member who is familiar with the contractor’s work.
- Read and understand all papers before signing anything.
- Always get a receipt for any payments made.
