Assistance With Complaints and Contracts

Organizations

American Homeowners Foundation, (800) 489-7776, https://www.homeorganizer.com

Offers a six-page sample remodeling contract ($7.95).

Better Business Bureau, (909) 835-6077,https:// www.bbbsouthland.org

Call or visit the Web site to check for complaints made against a contractor. Free on the Web; $3.75 per company by phone.

Contractors State License Board, (800) 321-CSLB (2752), https://www.cslb.ca.gov

Call or visit the Web site to check a contractor’s license or to make a complaint about a contractor (free).

The board also offers a 15-minute video, “Doing It Right: Hiring a Licensed Contractor,” which is available at public libraries and some video stores.

National Assn. of Home Builders Remodelors Council, (800) 368-5242, https://www.nahb.com

National Assn. of the Remodeling Industry, (847) 298-9200, https://www.nari.org

These industry trade organizations make referrals to local members, and their Web sites feature remodeling tips.

Publications

“Interior Home Improvement Costs and Exterior Home Improvement Costs” (R.S. Means Co., 2000; $19.95 each). (800) 334-3509

Each book includes estimated costs for more than 60 home-improvement projects, broken down by labor and materials costs, plus tables to adjust costs to a particular location.

“Six Secrets to Successful Remodeling,” by Bill Simone. (800) 853-1391. Free 17-page booklet written by a contractor.

Web Site

Remodeling Corner

https://www.remodelingcorner.com

Site sponsored by the United Homeowners Assn., Smart Consumer Services and the Home Improvement Lenders Assn. offers numerous articles with pro-consumer remodeling advice.