Relocating to Las Vegas | Remodeling and Home Services

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Remodeling and Home Services

Buying A House And Making It A Home
While house hunting in Las Vegas, you and your spouse have found the perfect home – it’s well situated close to a high-rated school, it’s within a decent commute to your work and a nice pool and landscaped backyard really made a lasting impression. You’re hesitating because the home will require some remodeling but not enough to stop you from moving in. On the other hand, the home is available for immediate occupancy vs. other model homes you liked in outlying communities. Remodeling sounds like the solution, but where to start?

Find out more in this section about the remodeling trends, the best ways to find a remodeling contractor, the questions to ask when interviewing a contractor and what to include in the remodeling contract. Find out what remodeling projects in Las Vegas provide the best return on investment. You’ll also find a wealth of information about home services providers and how they can help transform your home into a dessert oasis!

According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) (www.nari.org), the remodeling market is a $275 billion industry and is expected to continue to experience significant growth.

Remodeling accounts for about 40 percent of all residential construction spending and about two percent of the U.S. economy. Though often more costly, major remodeling projects have typically provided a strong return on investment (ROI). A kitchen upgrade or room addition will recoup 80 percent of the cost within the first two years of construction and will continue to increase a home’s value over time. See the Cost vs. Value Report on this page that compares construction costs with resale values in the Las Vegas market.

Working with Contractors in Nevada
The Nevada State Contractors Board (www.nvcontractorsboard.com) provides a comprehensive booklet for homeowners to review at its website. “A Basic Consumer Overview of Contractors and Construction Contracts,” provides information to assist consumers in dealing with contractors and the Nevada State Contractors Board. The information provided is for informational use and not intended as an instructional guide. Excerpts are provided below.

If you are considering a home construction, repair, remodel, addition, demolition, electrical, plumbing or air conditioning repair, landscaping or installing a new pool, you will need a contractor to do the work. In the State of Nevada, that contractor should have a proper contractor’s license for his specific trade.

Licensed contractors who have met experience and examination requirements, are required to maintain bonds and workers compensation insurance and have established their financial responsibility. Therefore, it is wise to insist that your contractor be licensed. Your home is one of your biggest investments – be aware of your rights and responsibilities when hiring any person to work on it. An informed and prepared consumer is key to a successful project.

The Contractors Board
The Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) licenses and regulates contractors throughout the State of Nevada and is committed to promoting the integrity and professionalism of the contracting industry in Nevada. It has the responsibility to promote quality construction by Nevada licensed contractors through a regulatory licensing system designed to protect the health, welfare and safety of the public.

The Board consists of seven members appointed by the governor. Six members are licensed contractors and one non-contractor is the public representative on the Board. The NSCB’s staff includes a licensing department that processes and maintains contractors license information and an investigative department that investigates complaints.

Contact the NSCB
As a consumer, you may contact the Nevada State Contractors Board to:

Check and see if the contractor you are considering is licensed and in good standing in the proper classification and within the monetary limit for which youwant to hire.
Check for disciplinary actions.
Get tips on making sure your rights are protected before you enter into a contract.
File a complaint against a licensed contractor.
File a complaint against an unlicensed contractor.
Report unlicensed contracting activity.

To check a contractor’s license:
Southern Nevada (702) 486-1100
You can also check to see if a contractor is licensed at the NSCB website at www.nscb.state.nv.us.

To file a complaint against an unlicensed contractor, contact our Investigations Unit:
Southern Nevada (702) 486-1160
You may file a complaint via the NSCB website by going to Consumer Information and then the subheading Consumer Complaints.

To contact the Nevada State Contractors Board by mail or to visit their offices, the address is:
2310 Corporate Circle, Suite 200
Henderson, NV 89074

Governing Law and Rules
The law and rules regulating the licensing and conduct of contractors in the State of Nevada are contained in Nevada Revised Statutes 624 and Nevada Administrative Code 624. The purpose of the law is to protect the public and to provide remedies for consumers when a licensed contractor has violated the law. All contractors are required to be licensed. Unlicensed contracting activity is illegal in Nevada and is investigated by the Nevada State Contractors Board and prosecuted by the local justice court. Unlicensed contracting penalties can escalate from a misdemeanor, to a gross misdemeanor and to a Class E felony.

Select a Professional, Reliable, Remodeling Contractor
A contractor is a person who undertakes or offers to construct, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck or demolish any building or other structure. This includes a subcontractor or specialty contractor but not a material supplier. A contractor also includes a construction manager who performs management and counseling services on a construction project for a professional fee.

Finding a qualified professional remodeling contractor for your home improvement project doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By following these guidelines recommended and prepared by NARI, you will be better prepared to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Employ a home improvement contractor with an established business in your area. Local firms can be checked through references from past customers in your community or through your local better business bureau. Local remodelers are compelled to perform quality work that satisfies their customers for their business to survive.
In Nevada, all residential building contractors must be licensed by the state of Nevada, State Contractors Board (www.nvcontractorsboard.com). Ask the remodeling contractor for a current copy of his license.
Check with the government Consumer Affairs Office and the Better Business Bureau to ensure there are no complaints on record for the contractor. In Las Vegas, the Better Business Bureau can be reached at www.southernnevada.bbb.org.
Ask to see a copy of the remodeling contractor’s certification of insurance for the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage. Most states require a contractor to carry worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability insurance. Make sure the contractor’s insurance coverage meets all the minimum requirements.
If you solicit bids from several different home improvement contractors, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that is substantially lower than the others.

What are the questions to ask potential contractors?
Timing and money are the most common questions a home improvement contractor hears, but during an interview with a homeowner when homeowners should be asking about credentials and verifying business practices what is often heard is, “When can you start? When will it be finished? How much will it cost?”

According to NARI, these simply aren’t enough. Yes, timing may be “everything” in comedy, but that certainly isn’t the case when it comes to remodeling. If you are going to have a successful remodeling project, you need to learn the right questions to ask and how to ask them. NARI members offer a list of questions that you should ask:
Question 1: How long have you been in business?
Question 2: Who will be assigned as project supervisor for the job?
Question 3: Who will be working on the project? Are they employees or subcontractors?
Question 4: Does your company carry workers compensation and liability insurance? (Always verify this information by calling the agency. A copy of an insurance certificate does not let you know if the policy is still current. Even if the certificate has an expiration date, you cannot tell if the insurance has been canceled by either party.)
Question 5: What is your approach to a project such as this?
Question 6: How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year?
Question 7: Can you provide a list of references from those projects?
Question 8: Can you provide a list of business referrals or suppliers?
Question 9: What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
Question 10: Are you a member of a national trade association?
Question 11: Have you or your employees been certified in remodeling or had any special training or education, such as earning a Certified Remodeler (CR), Certified Remodeler Specialist (CRS) or Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC) or Certified Kitchen & Bath Remodeler (CKBR) designation?

It’s also important to realize that sometimes it’s not the answers you get that are significant, but what you don’t get. Asking the right questions is not enough. You need to pay attention to your instincts and to what information is missing.

Unlike your accountant or stockbroker, your remodeler will be a part of your daily life and available for some on-the-job education. He or she will be privy to your personal life, more so than your doctor or lawyer. Your contractor will know how you look early in the morning and how well behaved your dog is. It makes sense that you should take some time to carefully select this person and make sure that it is someone to whom you can ask questions.

Hiring a Contractor
The following information includes tips you can use when choosing and hiring your contractor.

Get at least three bids. Before hiring any contractor, get at least three written bids, or estimates for your project. Provide the contractors with accurate plans or drawings to enable them to determine the scope of work and costs involved. If prices differ by a wide margin, you may consider obtaining additional bids. Beware of any bid that is substantially lower than others. This may indicate that the contractor has made a mistake or has not included all of the work quoted by other contractors.

Ask for references. Ask potential contractors for references in writing. Call the contractor’s previous customers, and ask if they were satisfied with the work. Go out and look at the work for yourself.

Hire a licensed contractor. Even licensure cannot guarantee satisfaction. However, a licensed contractor has met experience and examination requirements and must fulfill certain conditions in order to maintain the license. A licensed contractor must have Worker’s Compensation insurance a bond and have established financial responsibility. This protects you from unnecessary liability. A licensed contractor is regulated by the Nevada State Contractors Board. A licensed contractor who violates the law (Nevada Revised Statute 624) may be disciplined by the Board.

The Contractors Board licenses contractors in several different classifications:
A – general engineering contractor.
B – general building contractor.
C – specialty contractor (electrical, landscaping, air conditioning, etc.).

Upon licensure, a monetary limit is established for each contractor based on his or her financial ability to maintain and complete contracts up to a certain amount. Contracts written in excess of the established limit are invalid.

The type of contractor you hire will depend on the kind of work you want done. For example, if you want only roofing work done, you would hire a contractor who is licensed as a roofing contractor. If the work you want done involves more than two types of work, then you may hire a licensed general building contractor, who will coordinate the appropriate licensed specialty contractors (subcontractors).

Before signing a contract, make sure the contractor is licensed in the correct classification and within the appropriate monetary limit. Ask to see the contractor’s “pocket card” that will state the classification for which the contractor is licensed, the license number and the monetary limit. If you have questions as to the validity or status of a license, call the Nevada State Contractors Board.

You may also wish to check with the Better Business Bureau in your area and the State of Nevada’s Department of Consumer Affairs to see if any complaints have been filed against the contractor.

Always Insist on a Written Contract
A written contract protects everyone concerned and prevents confusion if anything should go wrong. Be sure that the contract is dated, signed and specifies exactly what is being provided for your money. Do not assume or expect to be provided with anything not specified in the contract. Make sure the contract has adequate plans and specifications or other adequate description of the scope of the work to be performed. Ensure that all change orders are in writing and signed by both you and your contractor.
These are things that you should look for on your contract:

The contractor’s license number and classification.
The contractor’s monetary limit (the highest amount for which he can contract).
The exact amount due from you under the contract.
The date the work will begin and the number of days for completion.
The work to be performed and the materials to be used.
The approximate percentage of the work to be subcontracted and a list of subcontractors.
The contract is signed and dated by both parties.

It may be advisable to look for the following as well:

The name and address of any salesperson who solicited or negotiated the contract, in addition to the name and address of the contractor.
A detailed payment schedule.
Warranty terms.
A provision requiring the contractor to obtain lien releases from all subcontractors and material suppliers.

Take the time to review the contract and make sure that you completely understand the contents of the contract before you sign it. Don’t let a contractor or salesperson rush you into anything. If you are confused about the provisions of the contract or have questions about lien rights or other matters, consider hiring an attorney to explain them to you.

Liens
— What is a lien?
A lien is a claim (a right of a creditor over a debtor) against an asset (item of economic value – your home), which is used to secure a loan and must be paid when the property is sold.

— What is a mechanic’s or material-man’s lien?
When a contractor (or supplier) supplies labor or materials for the construction of improvements on real estate, the mechanic’s lien law gives the contractor a security interest in the real estate.

A person who performs labor or furnishes material with a value of $500 or more to be used in the construction, alteration or repair of your home has a lien upon the property in the event of an unpaid balance in the agreed upon amount or fair market value. As part of the disclosure prior to signing a contract, the contractor must inform the homeowner of the lien rights of labor, suppliers and subcontractors. Any person not paid for labor or materials furnished for a home improvement project may obtain a lien against the homeowner’s property. A subcontractor or supplier who has not been paid by the prime contractor may obtain a lien even if the homeowner has paid the contractor in full.

Request a contractor’s Affidavit of Final Release be provided to you at the time you make final payment and a final waiver of mechanic’s lien. This is your assurance that you will not be liable for any third-party claims for nonpayment of materials or subcontractors.

Required Disclosures – What your Contractor Must Make Sure You Know
When you enter into a contract, there are certain disclosures that your contractor must provide to you in writing. Disclosures must be provided by:

General contractors.
Residential contractors.
Swimming Pool and Spa contractors.

After You Have Hired a Contractor
Before work begins, make sure you have a complete and accurate set of contract documents. These should include:

A complete set of plans showing exactly what you are going to build. It is suggested that you engage the services of a licensed architect or engineer to prepare these or at least review them to ensure their accuracy and completeness.
A complete set of specifications relating to the plans drawn. These should be prepared or reviewed by an architect or engineer.
A detailed contract with a set of general and accepted conditions and specifications. You may wish to have your attorney prepare these or review them prior to your signature. No work should be allowed until all documents are completed to your architect’s, attorney’s or your satisfaction.

Ask your contractor about inconveniences that may occur and plan for them. If a building permit is required for the job, be sure the contractor obtains it before the work starts and that it is posted at the job site. Do not pull or obtain the building permit yourself.

Keep a File of all Documents Related to your Project
Your file should include:

Signed contract and any signed change orders.
List of all subcontractors and suppliers with contact information.
Plans and specifications.
Copies of building permits and inspections.
Cancelled checks and records of payments.
Record of all work performed and time on the job.
Delivery receipts for materials from suppliers.
Lien releases from materials suppliers and subcontractors.

When you receive lien releases from subcontractors or materials suppliers, check them against your records. Your paperwork will help you determine who has and has not been paid.

Make Sure all Change Orders are in Writing
Plan carefully and keep changes to an absolute minimum. Change orders are very expensive for both the homeowner and the contractor and will increase the cost of the project. If you must make change orders to original specifications they should be in writing and signed by both you and the contractor.

Prepare a “Punch List”
Write a list of minor work that needs to be completed or repaired. Do not engage in verbal agreements for repairs or additional work.

Proper Planning is Important
For considerably less than a new home, careful planning of improvement projects will enable you to update your home, increase the value of your investment and customize your living space. As part of the planning process, look over your property carefully. What repairs are needed? What improvements would you like to make? Think ahead and determine your future needs. Professional remodeling contractors can help you in your planning by outlining options and discussing the improvements you can make within your budget. Be sure to review your homeowner’s insurance policy and make adjustments for the added value of the work being done.

Think About Design and Function
Design and function should be foremost in your mind if you’re thinking of adding a room or converting an existing room. When planning a larger, more complicated project give thought to details such as, intended use of the space, flow of the space, where you want electrical outlets, telephone jacks and cable hook-ups located, the type of lighting required, your current and future storage needs and whether you want to include luxury items. These details will enable your home improvement to better suit your needs and your lifestyle.

A professional remodeling contractor or design service should be consulted about design and function of any remodeling project. He or she can also help you with time and money-saving hints.

Developing A Realistic Remodeling Budget
Review these simple tips about developing a budget from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry:

— Determine what you can afford
It may seem obvious, but oftentimes homeowners may expect a remodeling contractor to create the budget for them, which is not a good idea.

— Keep a reserve
Once you determine how much you can afford to spend on a remodeling job, decrease that amount by 10 to 20 percent. This reserve should be put away to cover any change orders or incidental charges accrued along the way. This will prevent a frantic scramble for additional funds at the end of the project.

— Keep “change orders” to a minimum
It is easy for a homeowner to say, “A little more on this fixture doesn’t matter. It’s very little money.” Unfortunately, having that attitude also makes it easy to overextend a prepared budget.

While it’s rare that any remodeling project proceeds without a single change order, homeowners can keep them to a minimum by sticking to their original plans. A change order is a written document detailing any requests to alter, change or remove any items found in the contract or project.

There are three key origins of a change order:

The homeowner initiates one because they have changed their mind about the design or a specific product.
Unexpected damage was found (termites, for example).
A code violation is uncovered that affects the project.

The proverbial, “while you’re at it…” That phrase can annihilate a budget. While it’s tempting for a homeowner to have his remodeling contractor complete handy work, it’s good to remember that any work not specified in the original contract will have an additional cost attached to it.

Working with Remodeling Professionals
Before work begins, ask your remodeling contractor what inconveniences may occur while the project is underway and plan for them accordingly. Consider moving personal property from construction areas and declare all work zones off-limits to children and pets.

Be sure your contractor is aware of vacations or special events so that he or she may schedule their job site time appropriately.

— Determining the Scope of the Project
Depending on your needs and the size complexity of your intended remodeling project, there are several different options for you to explore before finalizing your plans.

Building a home involves many different skilled professionals. As you learn about the process, it’s important to know the roles that key professionals play. Here is a brief summary of job titles and descriptions in the home-building process.

Architects represent the most highly educated and trained category of designers. The title requires a college degree and state certification. Architects are able to translate your ideas into detailed plans and material specifications. They can also oversee your project while it is in progress and are an excellent resource for other professionals, since they have already established a pool of designers and general contractors they have worked with in the past.

Designers are skilled in the design/building process, but are not licensed or regulated in most states. If you’re planning to work with a designer, be sure to verify his or her experience and professionalism. You’ll want to review the designer’s portfolio and look for design degrees from accredited universities and membership and/or certification from professional organizations, including as the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD), the National Council of Building Design Certification (NCBDC), the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), among others. These organizations help assure professional standards of education, field experience and adherence to a code of ethics.

Residential Designers (Space Planning) are trained to use space most efficiently and tend to focus on floor plan design, detailed lifestyle evaluation and design functionality. If you’re considering a floor plan, a family room, bathroom or kitchen, you may wish to consult with a residential/interior specialist. This specialist can spend additional time and attention to specific areas of the home that are especially important to you and your family. Often, residential designers’ expertise can overlap with interior designers because they both offer advice about the latest trends and products.

Structural Engineers need to be consulted if your project requires any structural alterations to an existing building. The role complements the work of architects, who are the spatial and aesthetic experts of building design and construction. A structural engineer can provide advice on any strengthening required and the design of new lintels, beams, walls or foundations that may be needed. Structural Engineers can also perform a site inspection to establish the nature of the ground and then design suitable foundations for the building.

Kitchen and Bathroom Designers provide expert product knowledge within their specialties, but they may lack construction experience or miss design opportunities associated with additions or movement of walls, according to building experts. If the project involves high-dollar budgets where expensive cabinets, materials and appliances will be used, consider either of these professionals.

Home Center Staff Designers are an easy, immediate and cost-effective way to learn about basic design ideas. You can check your local home center store to learn about classes they are offering or simply visit the store and discuss with staff designers what you’re planning to build. You will find that design skills among the staff varies widely. Also, be aware that the staff will recommend solutions using their store’s products.

Interior Designers and Home Decorators are specialists who offer advice on furniture, wall coverings, colors, styles and overall physical appearance of your project. While not essential to the process, home decorators and interior decorators can save you both time and money by helping you to narrow down your choices and utilizing professional discounts for materials such as furniture, home accessories, wallpaper or paint. Communicating your personal style and preferences are important when you meet with an interior designer or home decorator. Be prepared to show examples of styles you like that you’ve found in magazines or books. Based on your input, these professionals will develop ideas that will work for the space and help create a setting that represents your artistic sensibility. Keep in mind that while an interior designer may also do some interior space planning, most usually focus on interior decorating by selecting finishing touches such as picking carpets, drapes, paint colors, fabrics and furnishings. You may find that their duties could overlap or be interchangeable with those of both residential designers and interior decorators.

Draftspersons primarily prepare technical drawings of designs created by others, although some can assist with design. These days, most drafters work in Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) programs. You may already have a good idea of a floor plan you like; if that’s the case, it’s not uncommon to hire a draftsperson to draw the blueprints and have them checked by an engineer before speaking with general contractors to bid, apply for permits and build.

As you speak with these various professionals in the home-building process, look for people whose experience, designs and ideas best reflect your taste and sensibilities. There should also be good communication flow and understanding of the project. After all, it’s about building your new home, one of the largest investments you’ll make in your lifetime and the center of your family’s life.

Paying for the Work
It is normal for a contractor to ask for partial payment in advance and, provided that you have taken the precautions recommended above, you should expect to provide a part of the cost before the work begins. However, it is notorious that scammers involved in door-to-door rip-offs will ask for payment in full in advance, and then abscond without completing (sometimes without even starting) the job.

Even with a reputable business and a sound written contract in place, you should not pay in full until the work is complete and you have inspected it yourself and found it satisfactory. A partial payment schedule will usually specify what part of the job has been done when a payment is due. Inspect the work and make sure the contractor has met the schedule before you make your payment.

If you are asked to sign a certificate of completion, do not do so until all the work is completely finished, the site is cleaned up and you are satisfied.

Consider a Payment and Performance Bond
On larger jobs, you may want to request a payment and performance bond. While there will be an additional charge for the bond, it provides assurance that your project will be completed. A reputable contractor will be bondable for a small additional fee.

Financing a Remodeling Project
If the job is expensive enough that you will need to finance it, be sure to shop around for the best terms on the financing. This is separate from taking bids on the cost of the work. In choosing your source of financing, you will be concerned with the rate of interest, finance charges and the terms of the pay-out. As with any financing agreement, you should calculate the entire cost of interest and charges over the term of the loan.

Some homeowners obtain financing for a remodel, especially for larger projects. There are various financing plans readily available to homeowners, among the most popular being the home equity loan, which bases the loan amount on the equity in the home.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans specifically for home improvements are available through many banks and lending institutions. The FHA requires that the contractor be approved by the lender; but proceed with caution – that in itself does not guarantee the contractor’s work. Other financing options include personal loans and credit card loans. For more information about financing a remodeling project, NARI’s Homeowner’s Guide online at www.Remodeltoday.com discusses financing and more in greater depth.

Whichever financing a homeowner obtains, it’s recommended they stick to it. If the budget is “x” and reserve fund is “y,” don’t be afraid to tell the contractor that these are the budgetary parameters.

A professional remodeling contractor is familiar with the many financing options available and can frequently be of assistance in putting a homeowner in touch with various options, but it’s recommended that homeowners do their own homework on the available options.

A home improvement company may offer financing, but this is not necessarily the best option, even though it may seem easy to arrange the financing and the work contract at the same time. Be aware that some contractors will have you sign a credit contract to pay a certain price for the work plus a finance charge, then immediately sell the right to collect on the contract for 20-50 percent less than the contract price. That usually means you could have gotten the work done for 20-50 percent less by paying cash or arranging financing yourself.

Exterior Remodeling Projects
— Contracting for a Pool or Spa
Living in the Las Vegas area can provide you and your family with many happy hours of sun and fun poolside. Once you decide on building a pool, there are many considerations to make. What size and depth are you looking for? Do you want a grotto effect with waterfalls and elaborate landscaping or an oasis with a lanai? You’ll have to select a pool filter and whether you want to use a combination of ozone and chlorine to keep your pool clean. Keep in mind utility costs and do your homework on how to conserve energy, including use of pool covers.

Next, you’ll need to be aware of what should be included in a contract between you and a pool contractor. Here are some of the items that should be specified in order to avoid any misunderstandings later.

Plans and specifications: Sufficient detail should be provided so there is no question about what is to be built. A plan, drawn to scale and attached to the contract, should show the location of the pool on your property; the pool’s shape, size, and dimensions; and the location of the support system, including filter and pump, solar panels (if any), heater, return lines and main drains with pipe sizes, skimmers, and accessories.

Performance: The contract should specify all the work to be done, materials to be used, equipment to be installed (including manufacturer and model number) and any optional features to be considered. The date work will start and end should be stated (unless local weather conditions don’t allow it), as well as any penalties for late work. It should also note the time when the owner will become responsible for the maintenance of the pool.

Excavation and grading: The contract should state the costs of gaining access to the site, relocating utilities and excavation of any unknown underground hazards whether man-made or natural. It should also assign responsibility for final grading and for the removal of building debris and surplus earth and rock.

Costs and payment: Outlined in the contract should be the cost of the specified work and any options, the payment schedule (a series of payments based on work completed), and the question of ownership in the case of bankruptcy.

Legal conditions: Legal provisions in the contract should include the validity period for the agreed upon price, responsibility for permits and zoning compliance, and provisions for mechanic’s lien releases as the labor and materials used are paid for (these come from the contractor and any subcontractors and material suppliers involved). These releases are necessary because, even though you’ve paid the contractor, if he or she has not paid others who have done work or supplied material on your property, you can be liable for the amount owed. In addition to requiring lien releases every time you make a payment, you can request that the pool builder post a bond assuring payment to subcontractors.

All pool contractors must be licensed by the state of Nevada. You can find more information online at www.nvcontractorsboard.com or by calling (702) 486-1100.

— Building a pool in your backyard
Nevada state law requires that anyone contracting to construct a residential swimming pool or spa be properly licensed by the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB). People who hire an unlicensed contractor to save money often end up spending more in the long run. The NSCB recommends using the following checklist to assist when you decide to have your swimming pool built.

Make sure the contractor and any subcontractors are licensed with the Nevada State Contractors Board. Ask to see their license pocket card. Contact the Board to verify a license number.
Get at least three written bids. Be cautious of special deals or any bid that sounds too good to be true.
Ask for references from both the contractor and any subcontractors that would be hired.
Ask for financial references.
Insist that you approve all completed plans prior to the start of work.
Negotiate a clear contract. Put everything in writing, and avoid verbal promises. Put all changes in writing.
Never pay the full payment up-front. Set up a payment schedule and pay as work is completed.
Before construction begins, make sure your contractor obtains the proper permits. Do not take out or pull permits in your name.
Never sign off for completion until all work has been completed.
Do a walk through with the contractor before signing off on the project.

Laws Designed To Protect You When Having a Pool Built: The Nevada Legislature has enacted laws designed to protect homeowners when contracting for a swimming pool. All contracts for residential pools or spas in excess of $1,000 must be in writing and contain the following:

Plan and scale drawing of the shape and size.
Contractor and owner’s name and project information.
Start date and approximate completion date.
An agreement to provide a written schedule for starting and completing each phase of the project (completion not to exceed 30 days for each phase).
Description and corresponding dollar amount of work to be performed.
Amount of advance deposit or down payment not to exceed $1,000 or 10 percent of aggregate contract price, whichever is less.
Payment cannot exceed the value of work performed or materials supplied.
Agreement that the contractor will provide full and unconditional lien releases to the owner after completion and payment for each stage of the project.
Agreement to promptly pay subcontractors and suppliers after each phase is completed.

For a complete copy of the regulations, contact the Nevada State Contractors Board in Southern Nevada at (702) 486-1100 or visit www.nvcontractorsboard.com.

— Decks
A wise investment for improving your home includes adding a deck. It’s a great way to increase your living space without major construction. By spending an average of $37,000 in the region, owners saw a return of around 63 percent of the total cost of the deck. See the Cost vs. Value Report on page 149 that compares construction costs with resale values in the Las Vegas market.

Renovating an Existing Deck: You can do wonders renovating an existing deck with a fresh coat of paint or stain, according to the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute. Not only will this step enhance this often-used exterior space, but it can also protect the actual wood surface allowing the deck to last longer. Here are some more tips.

Browns and grey continue to be favorite color selections when painting or staining a deck, but homeowners are increasingly choosing combinations that suit their home or decorating style. If you’re not quite ready to add multiple hues to the entire space, add a splash of color by incorporating complementary colors onto planter boxes, built-in benches or even deck trellises. When it comes to painting your deck, you have plenty of options to harmonize or complement your outdoor surroundings.
A coat of semi-transparent stain can be a great way to spruce up a wooden deck. It lets you add some color to the wood without hiding its grain or texture.
If viewing the wood grain is not a high priority, an opaque deck stain can be a better choice. These products, which can be oil based or latex, are more like paints in their pigmentation and so typically hold up longer than a semi transparent stain.
Of course, if you don’t want to show either the grain or the texture of the wood, a quality porch and deck paint or enamel may be the way to go. It will last longer than any type of stain although you may need to use a primer for best results.

— Landscaping
Did you know that landscaping your home can add 7 percent to 15 percent to its value? In fact, landscaping can return 100 percent to 200 percent of your investment when it comes time to sell and Money Magazine reports that a swimming pool returns only 20 percent to 50 percent of your money. Mature landscaping can lower energy costs, dampen noise and help reduce air pollution. Other ideas to enhance your home’s value through inexpensive landscaping include:

Select indigenous plants. Select native rather than exotic plants for your landscaping to reduce maintenance and increase curb appeal. Indigenous grasses, trees and shrubs grow well together and to predictable sizes. They do not need watering (except during establishment), nor do they require chemical fertilizers because they are already adapted to local conditions and insects. Native plants not only accent your home, they also attract colorful birds and butterflies.
Use small spaces effectively. Container gardening can work miracles in small spaces, with the added benefit of being easy to move according to the plants’ needs. If you live in a condo or an apartment, revitalize your entryway, patio or balcony with attractive hanging baskets, planters and unique accessories. Try to limit the different kinds of plants and materials you use in a small garden.
Create an outdoor space. Consider adding a deck or a patio for entertaining and relaxing. This addition can also be a great investment. According to the 2008 Cost vs. Value Report, installing a deck provides up to 81.8 percent return on investment. Select from a variety of different surfaces to fit any particular style or budget, including concrete pavers, natural clay, wood, stones and brick. Pebbles, gravel, bricks and tiles can also be incorporated easily and inexpensively.

If this is the first time you’ve lived in a desert climate, one great place to learn about the landscape here is the Gardens at the Springs Preserve, an eight-acre botanical preserve that features a wide range of desert landscapes and demonstrate native and non-native desert plant life with interpretive stations and hands-on activities.

Unique features of the new garden include the Watering Can Theater for irrigation instruction, the Tool Shed Theater, a children’s theater featuring molded mushroom-shaped chairs, a weather station with real-time weather data, the Enabling Garden, which demonstrates options for people who have physical challenges and the Frame House, a 70-seat kitchen area for outdoor cooking demonstrations. (www.springspreserve.org)

The Las Vegas Valley Water District offers tips for water-smart landscaping (also known as xeriscape). It’s more than cacti and lava rock – it can also be a lush oasis brimming with water-efficient plants. With a little planning and these tips, you can create the water-smart landscape of your dreams:

Make a Plan – Wandering the aisles of your local nursery can be fun, but develop a game plan before you go to stay on task and on budget. Put your ideas on paper, with a landscape master plan that outlines where plants will go. Remember to allow space for young plants to mature and spread.
Read! Learn! Get Inspired! Call (702) 258-SAVE for a free Water Smart Landscapes book and video. These guides will show you how to do it yourself or work with a contractor. Call (702) 258-3205 for a schedule of free landscaping classes at the Gardens at the Springs Preserve.
Two Yards Are Better Than One – Talk to your neighbor about a combined landscape upgrade. Many suppliers offer better prices on larger quantities of material.
Enroll in the Water Smart Landscape program to earn a rebate of $1 per square foot when you upgrade grass to water-efficient landscaping. You must be pre-approved before you make any changes to your yard. Here are the steps to apply:

Call (702) 258-SAVE before you begin.
Participate in a required pre-conversion site review.
Upgrade your landscape once you have approval.
Call for a final inspection.

Prepare surfaces. Prep work is critical. Properly remove turf areas you don’t use, grade for proper drainage and the addition of mulches in your landscape. Mulches such as rock or wood help retain soil moisture and shield plants from extreme cold or heat.
Beware the Irrigation Short Cut – Assess your current irrigation system. Which areas need sprinklers? Which need drip irrigation? Consult a professional if you plan to convert an existing system: ill-advised short cuts can parch plants and cost you more in maintenance, parts and water in the long run.
Buy Starter Plants – Those 5-gallon plants are pretty, but pricey. Choose 1-gallon containers instead. Fall is a perfect time to plant, and even small plants will mature quickly. Colorful groundcovers like Lantana or Myoporum will spread easily, require little maintenance and are water-efficient.

Water Smart Landscapes Program Plant List: For a detailed list of common plants found in Southern Nevada landscapes, visit the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s website at www.snwa.com and click on landscapes. Under the Landscape Design Toolkit, select Plant List – Common Names. You can also call the Conservation Helpline at (702) 258-SAVE (7283).

Interior Remodeling Projects
— Flooring
If you’re remodeling, it may be wise to make a flooring change. Whatever you choose, it should be practical for your needs. It’s also important to identify the function of the room. Is it a family room that will experience lots of traffic or a bedroom where soft surfaces are favored? Here is a range of flooring options to consider before you make your decision.

Hard surfaces – hardwood floors, ceramic tiles and laminate – these are all becoming more popular in residential flooring options. Carpeting is moving toward softer, textured and more luxurious looks. Area rugs not only add warmth and comfort to a room, but are a distinctive decorating feature.

Laminate flooring, which originated in Europe, has become very popular. It’s durable, hard wearing and beautiful. Laminates are replicating stone and granite for endless decorating possibilities.

Hardwood floors are moving more toward distressed planks, wider widths and the introduction of exotic woods. At the same time, FiberFloor, which is easy to install with no gluing required, is among the current flooring choices. And if you move, you can pick it up and take it with you.

Vinyl flooring provides look of stone, ceramic tiles and hardwood. Either sheet vinyl or vinyl tiles are a natural solution for today’s homeowner looking for quality and design. Linoleum, the original environmentally friendly floor covering, is available in a wide selection of colors and patterns and adapts to any decorating solution.

Floor tile are a decorators dream come true and provide timeless beauty and durability. Travertine tile is also another flooring option becoming more and more popular this year.

Rugs provide versatile splashes of color to a room, giving it personality and function, while carpeting brings color and warmth. Carpeting is still the No. 1 selling floor covering, thanks to its many color and texture availabilities.

Have you ever considered cork flooring? It’s comfortable to walk on and incredibly warm underfoot. Bamboo floors are popular because they are an environmentally friendly hardwood and also beautiful.

Exterior/Interior Remodeling Projects
— Painting Inside and Out
Many homes in Las Vegas are governed by a Home Owners Association (HOA), each with its own rules and covenants that specify the appearance and maintenance of the home. HOAs may issue a citation if your home shows noticeable surface wear on the body, trim, border walls and gates of your home. This can include cracked or peeling paint and faded or stained paint visible on the exterior of the home.

Here are a few important guidelines from the Paint Quality Institute on hiring a painting contractor:

Specify the work. Prepare a simple list of the work required, indicating which areas need to be painted, what gloss level and color and when the work needs to be completed.
Get quotes. Talk with several contractors and ask for written quotes.
What is the proposed painting process? Check the details of what the contractor will do for each surface to be painted, including:

Surface preparation.
Priming (including type and brand of primer).
Finish coats (type of paint, gloss level, brand, colors and number of coats).

How will your belongings be protected? How will the contractor protect the areas around the painting project? Will nearby plantings be protected when the exterior is being painted? How will furniture, fixtures and floors be protected during interior painting?
Timing. When will the work begin and be completed? How many painters will be working on the job? What will be the remedy if the job is not completed in time?
Warranty protection. Is there a warranty on the work? Does it cover labor and materials or just labor? How long is the warranty and what is the remedy if there is a paint failure?
Recommendations. Ask the potential contractor for the names of previous customers and call each.
Presentation. Is the contractor courteous, businesslike and appropriately dressed? A dirty, unkempt appearance may indicate a lack of care on the job.
Response. Is the contractor punctual with appointments and in returning phone calls and generally interested in working with you? If the responses are slow before the job is awarded, improvement is unlikely.
Paint quality. A painter can select from a number of products that are manufactured at different quality levels. Top-quality, 100 percent acrylic paints last much longer than ordinary paint and cost less over the lifetime of the paint job.

— Window Treatments
As a new resident to the community, if you’re unaccustomed to sunny days, you’ll be amazed how light and bright Valley living can be! One of your first tasks will be selecting the right window coverings to give you privacy, light and also be energy efficient.

While in the past windows have represented a major source of unwanted heat loss, discomfort and condensation problems, in recent years, windows have undergone a technological revolution. It is now possible to have lower heat loss, less air leakage, and warmer window surfaces that improve comfort and minimize condensation.

You can also select energy-efficient window coverings without compromising good design. Window coverings, such as blinds, shades and draperies reduce solar heat most effectively if the surface facing the glass is a reflective color like white. Hunter Douglas offers every imaginable window covering option from sheers, to shades to honeycomb shades, blinds and shutters. Incorporating window coverings into your interior design can make a difference on monthly energy costs, especially in the Las Vegas area.

Both new and existing homes can benefit from window treatments that control the sun’s heat. In addition to the energy savings, you can have a more comfortable home but you can also save on the installed cost of a new air conditioning unit. You can reduce the size of your air conditioning unit by half to 1 ton with properly applied window shading techniques.

The Push For Greener Homes
A major nationwide trend is building with sustainability in mind. This also applies to remodelers, who are leading the charge to provide eco-conscious solutions for home remodeling projects, according to NARI.

Faced with mounting scientific evidence that climate change threatens the health of our planet, homeowners are compelled to ask how they can make a difference. Green remodeling practices have become more popular as homeowners cope with ever-increasing energy costs, health concerns and diminishing natural resources.

Contractors are assisting homeowners to choose eco-friendly solutions for their remodeling projects year-round. “If you had to put it in a nutshell, the biggest trend we’re seeing is sustainable design,” said Stewart Davis, AIA, design director for CG & S Design-Build in Austin, Texas, a NARI member. “We’re still doing nice kitchens and baths, but people want to do these projects as green as possible – and within their budget.”

Here are a few specific ways NARI remodelers can help plan a green remodel:

— Efficient Heating and Cooling
With dramatic increases in energy costs becoming an annual occurrence, many homeowners have come to realize that building in an environmentally friendly way also means making smart decisions that translate into financial savings. New insulation technologies, such as spray-in cellulose insulation, is made from 80 percent post-consumer recycled newspaper and will effectively seal homes from harsh heat and cold.

Thermal solar energy is a non-polluting energy source that is easily captured and used for water and space heating. Although solar water heaters can be expensive ($1,000-$4,000), they can show paybacks of four to eight years, according to Austin Energy. Space heating systems can vary from $800 for wall heaters to $4,000 and more for large central systems. Qualified remodelers can help homeowners choose the right combination of insulation and energy-saving heating and cooling systems to reduce energy costs.

— Reducing Water Consumption
Southern Nevada is located in the arid Mojave Desert, which averages about 4 inches of rain each year. Reducing outdoor water use and water waste is essential to long-term sustainability in the desert. The Southern Nevada Water Authority (www.snwa.com) offers residents many tips on water conservation for every part of the house, yard and for washing vehicles.

Additionally, selecting the right appliances, such as water-conserving washers, dryers and dishwashers, and installing low-flush toilets and showerheads, can reduce the amount of water needed and help trim water bills. In addition, approximately 8,000 gallons of water per household each year are lost while waiting for hot water to come from the tap. Positioning a home’s water heater as close as possible to the points of use for hot water will help conserve this valuable resource.

— Healthy Indoor Air
Homeowners today are concerned about maintaining a healthy indoor environment, particularly if they have sensitivities to airborne irritants. Modern building materials, such as construction adhesives, paints and treated woods, can have toxic VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) that adversely affect indoor air quality. Today, there are new non-toxic materials that will improve the overall health of a home. Air filters, such as those installed in a homes central HVAC system, can also improve the quality of indoor air.

— Sustainable Materials
Reduce the environmental impact of your remodel by choosing flooring and countertop materials made from local or regional sources. There are many products on the market today that are either made of recycled materials or produced in an eco-friendly way. “Green” surfaces, such as reclaimed hardwood, bamboo flooring and recycled glass countertops leave a lighter footprint on the environment.

— Quality Over Quantity
Many homeowners today are opting for slightly smaller homes in exchange for smarter planning and design. “Instead of the big formal rooms, many of our clients request multifunctional spaces, such as a home office that doubles as a guest bedroom,” Davis said. “In areas with small lots, every square foot needs to count and remodelers and architects can help design spaces that do that.”

— Recycle Construction Waste
Eco-conscious remodelers recycle as much project waste as possible during a home renovation project. For example, CG &S Design-Build will bring four waste containers to a project site – for paper, metal, wood and concrete – in an effort to recycle more efficiently. “We are very aware that so much waste is traditionally put in a landfill, and we art trying reduce that as much as we can,” Davis said.

For homeowners who want to promote sustainability, NARI remodelers can help homeowners navigate the path to greener living. Green remodeling gives homeowners the chance to combine earth-friendly building concepts with cost-saving solutions. NARI’s approach to green remodeling emphasizes comfort, health and efficiency for a happier home.