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Household Management- Things to Consider
How to Choose a Contractor
Working with Contractors
Ramps

Things to Consider – Household

Kitchen
The kitchen is usually one of the most “lived in” rooms in the house, where cooking, eating, cleaning and entertaining happen.  There is potential for burns, spills, and fires.  The following things should be considered when making any changes to the kitchen area:

Do you need shelves that roll out to minimize bending?
Is there enough storage space and is it in a useable location?
Is there a shelf that has a cutout that will hold a bowl in case one-handed stirring is needed?
Is there a scorch-proof shelf or countertop area near the stove?
Is there good lighting, bright and directed towards the work area?
Do the kitchen utensils have easy-grip handles?
Is the sink accessible for a wheelchair or walker if needed?
If the sink can be rolled beneath if in a wheelchair, are the hot water pipes covered to prevent burns?
What is the refrigerator / freezer configuration? Top/Bottom or Side to Side?
Where are the burner controls for the stove and oven?  In the back or the front?  Digital or manual?
Is there a fire extinguisher?
Do you need labels for the controls on the stove, microwave and dishwasher?

General Indoors
Are the switches and thermostats no more than 48 inches from the floor?
Is the thermostat manual or programmable?
Would rocker light switches work better than standard switches for you?
Do the switches have locator lights in them to assist with finding them in the dark?
Are electrical outlets spaced 27 inches from the floor so there is less bending?
Are there sturdy guard railings for the stairways?
Is the carpeting in good repair without loose areas or wrinkles?
Are there wall lights versus ceiling lights (replacing light bulbs is easier)?
Do you need to have touch lamps or switches to turn lights on or off?
Do you have a rechargeable flashlight?
Do you have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors?
Do you need lever door handles versus round?
Do you need a personal security device such as a pull-cord or a “lifeline” phone assistance service?
If you have a hearing loss, are you able to use the telephone and know about household sounds (door knocks, telephone rings, smoke alarms)?
If you have a vision loss are you able to move around the home independently and are you able to locate items that you need? 

Tips and Tricks
A small mirror mounted above the stovetop can help someone who uses a wheelchair or seated walker to see what’s cooking.
Unbreakable glass pots let the cook see what they are doing.
Attaching clothes pins to stove knobs makes them turn easier.
Tongs can help remove items from the cupboard or shelf.  Better yet, buy a reacher!

Bathroom
Modifications in the bathroom are usually made to prevent falls and eliminate electrical hazards.  Privacy, dignity and accessibility should always be a considered when making changes to the bathroom area.

Is the entry door wide enough and do you need it to swing in or out?
Sliding doors are an option for smaller bathrooms.
Do you need a shower chair and will it fit into the existing tub or shower area?  Is it secure and stable?
If you need a roll-in shower remember to plan for assistance from a care attendant if needed.
Are there grab bars located near the toilet and the bathtub or shower?
Do you need faucets that turn easily?
Do you need an anti-scald device on the water and shower faucets?
Do you have anti-slip material where needed?
Is the sink at least 27inches above the floor so that if you needed to roll under it you would be able to?
Is there room on the counter for toiletry items so that they are handy?
Do you need a telephone in the bathroom for safety?

Living Room
Living rooms and dens are fairly easy to make accessible.  Some things to consider are the same as in other areas: light switches, electrical outlets, and thermostats.
Do you need windows that can be opened easily either due to limited strength or mobility?
Are you able to operate the television remote controls?
Do need to have a cordless phone with you?
Are you able to control the lights independently?
Do you need an intercom system for visitors when they come to the door?
Have you made sure that “throw or scatter” rugs have a non-slip backing?

Bedroom
What is the height of the bed?  Do you need to adjust the height to make it easier to get into or out of the bed?  Do you have help with transferring from a wheelchair into the bed?
Can you turn the lights on and off from the bed?
If you use a wheelchair is there enough turning room around the bed?
Can you reach the clothing rods in the closet or do they need to be lower?
Are you able to get into the dresser drawers, do they open easily?
Do you have a telephone in the bedroom?
Do you have a bright, easy to see clock with an alarm clock that you know how to set?

Garage
Is the garage large enough for your needs?
Do you need an automatic garage door opener?
Are you able to reach the tools, garden equipment, etc. that you need?
Do you have storage shelves that are easy for you to use?

Outdoors
Do you have sidewalks that are wide enough for a wheelchair or walker if needed?
If you have a ramp, is there a non-slip surface material applied, are you able to clear it of snow/ice, and is it sturdy?
Do you have sturdy railing on any stairways?
Do you need lever doorknobs for entrance doors?
Do you have deadbolt locks?
Are there enough outside lights?
Are you able to reach the mailbox?

Lighting
Does each room have enough lighting for moving about, reading, cooking, sleeping, etc.?
Have you considered using night lights or rope lights for safety at night?
If you have a vision loss this area is very important to evaluate.

 

How to Choose a Contractor

HOW TO CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR, 10 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE INVITING HIM INTO YOUR HOME

By Michael J. Cardillo

1. Are You Licensed?
Make sure the contractor is properly licensed.  In most areas, contractors should be licensed. Anyone can say they are licensed.  Make the contractor prove it by either showing you the license or giving you a copy of it.  Remember to check the expiration date.  Being licensed is the law.  If a contractor can not produce a valid license, DON’T HIRE HIM!

2. Do You Carry General Liability Insurance?
Make sure the contractor carries general liability insurance.  This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by thy contractor and/or his employees.  The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing any damage that occurs.

3. Do You Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
Make sure your contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance.  It protects you from liability if a worker is injured while on your property.  Be aware that if the contractor doesn’t carry workers’ compensation coverage, you may be liable for any injuries suffered by the contractor or any of his employees on your property.  If the contractor is a one man operation, he can be exempt from having to carry workers’ compensation insurance.  If he is doing so legally, he can provide you with a copy of his Construction Industry Certificate of Exemption from Workers’ Compensation.  This is very risky for you though..  If he shows up with a helper and the helper gets hurt, with no workers’ compensation insurance, you may have to pay the medical bills.  If the uninsured contractor is sloppy about verifying his subcontractor’s workers’ compensation insurance and the subcontractor bets hurt, again you may have to pay the medical bills.  In short, it is as much safer to deal with a fully insured contractor.

4. Will You Provide Me With A Written Lien Waiver?
Your contractor should provide you with a written lien waiver at the end of the job.  This is a legal document which says you the homeowner have paid the contractor in full for the services rendered and the contractor waives his right to place a mechanic’s lien on your property.  If during the course of construction you receive any Notice to Owner documents from material suppliers or sub-contractors, it would be prudent to ask the contractor for a Final Release of lien from each one prior to paying the contractor his final draw.  This protects you in case the contractor doesn’t pay his material suppliers or sub-contractors of the Remodeling Industry and NAHB stands for the National Association of Home Builders. it’s always a good idea to consider hiring a NARI or NAHB contractor.  In most cases, both organizations only attract conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and in weeding our unprofessional contractors.  In order to become a member, the contractor’s background and references are thoroughly investigated.

5. Are you a member of NARI or NAHB?  NARI stands for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and NAHB stands for the National Association of Homebuilders.  It’s always a good idea to consider hiring a NARI or NAHB contractor.  In most cases, both organizations only attract conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and in weeding out unprofessional contractors. In order to become a member, the contractor’s background and references are thoroughly investigated.

6. Will You Pull All The Required Building Permits?
Make sure your contractor pulls all required permits.  This is very important.  When a contractor pulls the required building permits, you know things will be done to "code".  Also, many homeowners insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered.  Not all contractors will do this.  Many prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the "hassle" with the inspectors.  Some contractors may ask you to get the permits because they are unlicensed or the work is outside of their license.  A reputable contractor will permit every job where a permit is required.

7. Do You Guarantee Your Work?
Your contractor should guarantee his work for at least one year from date of completion.  Some contractors guarantee their work for two or even three years.

8. Who Will Be In Charge Of The Job?
Make sure the contractor or his foreman is on the job whenever work is being performed - especially if sub-contractors will be used.  The responsible party must be intimately familiar with every aspect of your project.  If you won’t be home during the construction and must leave the house unlocked or leave a key with the contractor, you must feel comfortable.  You can’t be worried about what is going on when you are not there.

9. Will You Provide Me With Written References?
A good contractor will be happy to provide you with references.  You should look for a well established contractor who can give you several customer references from the last 6 months to one year.  Ask for the name of the contractors’ accountant or banker.  You want to ensure the contractor is financially sound and won’t be declaring bankruptcy in the middle of your project.

10. How Do You Handle "Dirty Work"?
Construction is dusty and dirty! It gets everywhere, especially if any sanding is being done.  Make sure the contractor will make an honest effort to keep the dust contained or notify you when the heavy dust generating operation will take place so you can place sheets over furniture or move sensitive belongings.  Make sure the contractor agrees to sweep up and place all construction debris in a predetermined place or refuse container at the end of every day.

"How To Choose a Contractor" is an excerpt from "Six Secrets To Successful Remodeling" written by Michael Cardillo. To request a Free copy call 914-666-0655.
Prepared by:
IndependenceFirst
600 W. Virginia St., Ste 400
Milwaukee, WI 53204
414-291-7520
www.independencefirst.org

 

Working with Contractors

WORKING WITH CONTRACTORS
By:  Cindi Pichler, Independence First, Milwaukee, WI.

      You have decided to make some accessibility modifications to your home, and you need a contractor.  You called around to a few disability organizations and got lists of people who do this kind of work.  You should be able to trust these guys, right?? 
Unfortunately we receive many complaints from people who hired contractors they found on lists that they received from a disability or social service organization.  These contractors have done bad work, or charged too much, or not done what was agreed upon.  In each case there were warning signs that could have tipped someone off that the contractor should not be trusted.  How can you protect yourself??
Realize that just because a contractor’s name appears on a list does not necessarily mean that they are “approved.”  Often it means that they have marketed their services to the organization that maintains the list, and the organization is just passing the marketing on to you.  If you get bad service, make sure to alert the organization that supplied the list. 
Check out your contractor.  Just because he is licensed does not mean he does good work.  Ask for references, and photos of past jobs.  You can check on a contractor’s license status by visiting the Wisconsin Department of Commerce Website at http://www.commerce.state.wi.us/, or calling them at 608-266-1018.  Don’t forget to check with the Better Business Bureau at www.wisconsinbbb.org, phone 1-800-273-1002.
Get competitive bids.  It never hurts to let contractors know that you are talking to other contractors.  If they really want your business, they will have to “sell” their services to you.  You can learn a lot this way, and maybe get ideas for modifications you had not considered.
The best defense against homebuilding and remodeling problems is a good contract.  Most of the complaints we receive are from people who settled for verbal agreements, or had contracts that were vague and unspecific.  You have no legal recourse unless the details are specified in the contract.  Be aware that ADA accessibility guidelines DO NOT apply to residential construction.  If you need a specific feature, make sure you state that in writing in the contract.  A good contract will specify every detail - from timing to materials to clean up.
NEVER pay in full in advance.  If advance payment is required (usually to cover materials), it should only be a portion of the total.  DO NOT pay the balance until you are completely satisfied that the work has been properly done.

Beware of hard sell tactics.  If a vendor is offering you a “deal” that he will be forced to pass on to others who are waiting if you don’t sign right away, stop and think.  This kind of tactic should be a warning sign.  If the contractor is truly skipping over established customers to offer you this wonderful “deal,” he is showing how little he values his customers.  If this is just the hard sell it appears to be, he is showing you how little he values you.  Either way, you lose.
If you are victimized by a contractor, make sure you complain to the right agencies.  Calling a disability agency will probably not help.  There is little they can do.  Complaints should be directed to the Better Business Bureau, the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, your local Building Inspector, or your local Home Improvement Council or Builder’s Association.  You can reach the Metropolitan Builder’s Association of Greater Milwaukee at 6511 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, 53213-4063, 414-258-9850.  The Wisconsin Builder’s Association is located at 4864 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, 53704, 608-242-5151.  If legal action is necessary, investigate whether your complaint can be addressed in Small Claims Court.  Any complaint should include a copy of the original contract, and pictures if at all possible. 
There are a lot of good, reputable contractors out there.  Shop around, get your contract in writing, and trust your instincts.