Building inspector answers question

Question: Does Cassville license contractors or have a list of local contractors that are reputable for people to choose from?

This question, in various forms, is one of the most frequently asked questions that we are asked at City Hall (regarding building and construction issues) and the simple answer is "no". Still, there are ways that Cassville citizens can use the City's building standards -- and some good ol' common sense -- to help them select the people they want to hire to do work for them.

The first thing to be certain of when you hire a contractor to work on your home is that he is sufficiently insured. Most people are unaware of the fact that the medical bills (and more) could be the homeowner's responsibility if his uninsured contractor falls from his roof or otherwise injures himself. Be certain that your contractor carries the necessary amount of Workman's Compensation Insurance to protect yourself should your contractor be hurt while working on your property.

The second form of insurance you want your contractor to have is called "general liability" so that should he, by negligence or accident, do something that destroys all or a part of your home he has access to the necessary amount of money to cover your loss.

A quick call to City Hall will help you to research whether or not your project requires any permits and final inspections from the City. Remember that the many legitimate and experienced builders and contractors that do work in Cassville are used to performing their work according to the minimum basic standards and have no problem with having their work inspected. If your particular builder or contractor balks at a permit, the chances are good that his main objection is having his work inspected. This should send up a "red flag" and suggest that you may want another contractor to bid on your job.

Another means of using the City's standards to protect you is to always arrange to make your final payment (never pay a contractor 100% up front) after the work has been inspected by the City's building inspector, when a permit has been granted. The City will not approve the work of a contractor or builder who has failed to meet the minimum acceptable standard.

While the City's building standards are no assurance of quality (for they only represent the minimum basic levels of safety and workmanship) they will scare away many contractors that you would probably not want to use anyway.

It is also a good idea for a homeowner to ask to see the paid receipt for the building materials that are being used for the job. When a contractor does not pay his supplier for his materials, the supplier will often put a lien on your property for the amount that he is owed.

The Missouri Attorney General maintains a data base for complaints that have been made against businesses (including contractors) in the State and you can research it on-line at http://www.consumer.ago.mo.gov/Know_MO/ .

Hopefully, some or all of this information will be useful to you as you build, remodel or repair your home in Cassville. Always email ( jimbushart@hotmail.com ) or call (314-803-2167 -- cell phone) if you need more information about the City's building codes.

Jim Bushart

Building Inspector