1. Enquire about their insurance

An essential factor to consider when selecting a contractor is their insurance. Any individual on the job site must have insurance that protects them from any potential legal issues that may arise during their time on your property. Before hiring a contractor, make sure that he has his license and does have proper liability insurance in effect. It is best not to consider contractors who don’t have the necessary insurance protection for themselves and their employees. There are several benefits to enquiring about your contractor’s insurance. These are:

1. You will be protected from any legal issues that may arise during your project

2. The contractor knows he is fully protected and can focus on his job, not worrying about lawsuits.

3. If something goes wrong, you have a clear understanding of what protection you are liable for, which will help avoid any future disputes or misunderstandings.

2. Ask for references

When interviewing potential contractors, inquire about their past work history, prices, and references. Additionally, request the contractor to provide you with a written proposal outlining their services and any inspection or certification requirements they may have. When interviewing a potential contractor, it is also important to see work samples of the type and quality of work that they do. You can also ask for references from other homeowners and enquire about their experience and find out if they are happy enough with their contractor’s craft.

3. Ask for a warranty

When it comes to selecting a good contractor for yourself, as with anything, the more research you can do and interviews you can have, the better. Be sure to request a warranty from prospective contractors that cover any issues that may arise from your project. This ensures that if you have any problems with your project after it has been completed, the contractor will take care of them without charging anything to you. This is also an excellent way to get a feel for whether or not the contractor you are considering will be a reliable one that offers good quality work.

 4. Find out if your contractor is licensed or bonded

In some states in the USA, the contractor must be licensed and bonded. A licensed and bonded contractor is one that has undergone training at proper levels on the construction process, outlining what goes into a project. The licensing/bonding requirements vary depending on where you live. There may also be additional pre-requisite regulations for all contractors working in specific states. Ask your neighbours, friends, or family if they know of any good contractors. Also, check online resources to see who has been positively reviewed by others in your local area.

5. Get a deposit

Most contractors require a certain deposit when starting work. This money is to be given based on the understanding that you will hold the contractor responsible for his performance on your project and not seek compensation until all work has been completed. The balance of payment due upon completion must also be precise, usually in terms per hour or based on an agreed-upon budget for the project. Ensuring that the money you are giving to a contractor is safe and won’t be misused is essential. If you’re in doubt about whether a contractor will honour their obligations, ask them to provide documentation of the deposit payment- such as a letterhead from their bank confirming the transfer of funds.

After reading this blog, you should be well-equipped to identify a contractor who will meet your specific needs. First and foremost, ensure that they are licensed and bonded. You can also ask for references, get a warranty, and make sure you have a deposit in any unforeseen circumstances. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional for guidance on how to choose the best contractor for your project.

Should I build a safe room?

Many consider designing and constructing a safe room as part of their residence's disaster preparation and emergency plans. A safe room is a robust and secure shelter that can withstand the effects of an extended emergency or harsh weather conditions. Safe rooms are designed to protect against any disaster-from tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes to severe weather events like hurricanes and blizzards. During disasters, people need access to both, inside and outside their residence for evacuation or staying with family members until help arrives from authorities. Hence, constructing and designing a safe room could prove beneficial in such cases. 

Types of safe rooms

1. Basements

A basement is a room or area below the ground level. Structurally, basements are typically made up of concrete or brick walls, and a floor either finished on the exterior or plastered inside. Due to the character of their construction and how they were intended to function, a basement can protect occupants from fires or poisonous gasses such as carbon monoxide. It also offers shelter if there is an earthquake or other natural disasters. As basements are built underground, it is recommended that these rooms be well ventilated.

2. In-Ground

An in-ground shelter is a type of safe room built into the ground. It is often used to protect people from earthquakes or other natural disasters. One benefit of an in-ground safe room is that fresh air will enter the room through a vent located in the ceiling, significantly reducing condensation buildup. In-ground safe rooms are typically constructed to withstand fire, explosives, and extreme temperatures. Having an in-built safe room allows occupants to quickly exit their homes and isolate themselves from nearby harm. 

3. Above-Ground

An above-ground safe room can also be a secure refuge in a threat or emergency. Above-ground safe rooms can be fitted with windows, doors, and ventilation to provide individuals with a safe space from which they can evacuate. Furthermore, this room can protect from extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and storms. Homeowners can modify existing above-ground structures to become safe rooms if they are built in compliance with the relevant building regulations. Some pros of having an above-ground safe room include that it is relatively easy to construct and can provide a high level of protection from hazardous atmospheres and threats. Furthermore, they are often cheaper to build than other safe rooms. 

Here are some of the costs to consider when building a safe room.

1. Construction Costs

The cost of building a safe room can vary depending on the size, materials, and type of safe room.

2. Price of safety measures

To ensure your safe room is cost-effective, it may be necessary to incorporate security measures such as locks, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems.

3. Size of the safe room 

A smaller safe room can be easier and less expensive to build than a larger one. However, if space is limited, combining multiple small rooms into one bigger one may be ideal.

4. Delivery Fees 

The fees involved in delivering safe rooms may require unique licensing or permits depending on your location.

5. Cost of construction 

Building a secure room requires considerable preparation, which can increase costs if you do not follow proper building codes or specifications for your area.

After reading this blog, you now know about the different types of safe rooms available and why it may be a prudent decision to build one. In terms of finances, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, if your primary concern is protecting yourself and your loved ones from harm, a safe room can be an affordable and reliable way to achieve that goal. However, before making the final decision, it's always best to consult with a professional who can help you understand your specific needs and recommend the best option.