The secret lies in the knowledge of power. You don’t need to become a certified expert, but a little bit of research can go a long way in saving money, ensuring quality, and making your project run smoothly. Here’s how to become a “dangerous” homeowner:
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Educate Yourself on Materials
Before a contractor quotes you, understand the different types of materials available, their costs, and the pros and cons of each. For example, when considering roofing, research the price differences between 35-year and 50-year shingles. Visit big box stores to compare material costs yourself.
Perry Greene understands that many homeowners feel overwhelmed and often rely solely on contractor expertise, which can lead to costly mistakes and subpar results. But what if you could become “dangerous” enough to avoid getting “snowed over”?
Understand Best Practices
Perry Greene explains that investing in a basic book or researching online for the best installation practices for your specific project is essential. Learn the “tricks” that often lead to shortcuts. For roofing, it’s essential to know that tearing off old shingles and felt, removing old nails, installing new flashing, and properly flashing valleys are non-negotiable steps for a quality job. Many problems don’t appear for years, causing significant damage later.
Negotiate with Confidence
When you know the approximate material costs and labor time (ask contractors how many days they expect and how many helpers they’ll use), you can better assess their bids. You’ll be able to identify inflated prices and negotiate effectively, ensuring you’re paying a fair rate for the work. Remember: if they can’t do it for your price, they shouldn’t agree to it.
Prioritize Insurance
Always verify your contractor has both General Liability and Workers’ Compensation insurance. This isn’t just a formality; it protects you from financial disaster in the event of an accident, fire, or improper installation. Always request a current certificate of insurance directly from their provider, not just a copy they provide.
Perry Greene says that becoming a “dangerous” homeowner means taking an active, informed role in your project. It’s about empowering yourself with enough knowledge to ask the right questions, spot potential issues, and ensure you get a high-quality job without paying for someone else’s shortcuts or inexperience.
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