Tips to Avoid Bad General Contractors

The majority of the clients that we come in and visit are looking to get a project done "yesterday". Unfortunately especially regarding your home or commercial building, you need to make sure that the t's are crossed and the i's dotted. What I mean by making sure you cover all your bases is that not all general contractors come in the same shape size or price point. Not all expensively priced projects are going to come out the best, and not all of the cheapest projects will come out the worst. Here are some quick tips you should do when coming across a general contractor for your building project.

Tips working with a general contractor: 

• Showing up
•  That normally means throughout the entire project not just the day you sign the papers to begin the project. Tardiness should not be a common thing for contractors but also make sure that you are at home at the time of all of the appointments. This courtesy swings on both ends so please make sure you follow through with your word as well. This comes especially important if you need  to give the contractor the keys to gain access to the part of the building needed to begin or continue a project. There are countless of times where the homeowner leaves the house before assisting the team with access to the facility to begin work. Knowing ahead of time eliminates any headaches and speeds the renovation process
• Payment Plans
• Never accept a 100% full payment upfront unless you already have trust with the contractor. Normally some contractors depending on the project will require 10-70% upfront. The payment plan should be discussed prior and written in writing so that there are no surprises further down the road.
• Estimated Budget  
• You have to go over some aspect of the estimated budget as such; types of materials (affordable, medium priced, or high end quality pricing). These all effect the pricing of the estimate as well as if you decide to buy your materials yourself as well. If you decide that you would like to have more of a higher cost of tile, cabinets, fixtures etc., please keep in mind that this will raise the estimated budget due to these changes. Even though labor is usually a fixed cost unless there are building surprises (such as repairs needed etc. ) the material cost will be the most variable cost because high end products can range up to 60% above the average costs of materials. Those aspects are not the fault of the contractor however discussing and putting these details on paper will eliminate any guess work ahead of time.
• Guarantees
• Please take the time to ask and have on paper the labor guarantee of the work performed for your project. Some contractors do not offer guarantees however some do (we have a  1 year guarantee)
• Material Guarantees are SEPERATE from labor guarantees - Most products do come with guarantees (especially the high cost / dependent ones). Please make sure to ask the contractor team to give  you all of the receipts and paperwork dealt with the warranties and guarantees associated with all of the new products especially if they are in charge of the purchasing the materials 
• Rushed Projects 
• Rushed projects are never a good idea. Have you ever tried rushing something and the quality never coming out the best?? Well you wouldn't that happening to crucial elements such as plumbing or electrical.  Keeping projects on schedule make sure to: pay on agreed schedules, provide materials as soon as possible if you agree that you want to purchase materials separately, keep in communication with the director of the project for any decisions needing to be made, attend scheduled appointments, get all of the contracts & permits a head of time, and ask any questions that you may have so that there is no assumptions when it comes to the work being produced. If you act a prominent role in your renovation project, the process will go a whole lot smoother. If the contractor is not producing the work that they have promised, then it may be a good idea to bring your concerns to the company or if the issue is not resolved try to find other estimates available to complete the project.

 

I hope these tips help! These are some of the questions that we come across when we are  at appointments, renovation projects  and so forth. If you are nearby the Northern NJ area don't hesitate to give us a call 201-726-2846 for a free estimate. 

Happy Holidays !
www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com
201-726-2846

New Castle Builder Client Review

A video eaturing one of our clients regarding his experience working with us as their general contractor.

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Division of Consumer Affairs Investigators Checking for Unregistered Home Improvement Contractors in Storm-Damaged Shore Counties

Here is an article stressing the importance of having the necessary certifications/ licenses and insurances especially when dealing with consumers. If you are in search of contractors this is something that you should be asking the prospective contracting companies.

Division of Consumer Affairs Investigators Checking for Unregistered Home Improvement Contractors in Storm-Damaged Shore Counties

NEWARK – Division of Consumer Affairs investigators assigned full-time to Atlantic, Ocean and Monmouth counties since early January have contacted nearly 630 contractors either working on storm-damaged homes or seeking business at area home expo/improvement shows, to ensure they are properly registered with the Division.  Division investigators continue to perform daily patrols of storm-ravaged areas where home improvement contractors are most in demand.

The investigators found that 477 of the 628 Home Improvement Contractors they checked were registered or had applied for registration.  Another 27 contractors had been registered but their annual registrations were expired and needed to be renewed. The remaining 124 contractors were found to be unregistered.  To advertise and perform home improvement work legally in New Jersey, contractors must register with the Division of Consumer Affairs. Registration materials are available here.

No fines or monetary penalties were assessed when the investigators found unregistered contractors working on homes damaged by Superstorm Sandy over the past two months.  Instead, warnings were issued and unregistered home improvement contractors were provided information about the state's Home Improvement Contractors' Registration Act and told what they need to do to comply with the law.  If the Division encounters these contractors again and they are still not registered, fines and penalties will be issued.

"Those unregistered contractors who do not take the opportunity we're providing to comply with the law will face criminal charges and civil penalties," Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa said.  "We recognize how important contractors are to the rebuilding process, but they must comply with the law and treat our residents with fairness and honesty in all aspects of their work."

"The 3 Rs – recover, rebuild, restore – will be words heard throughout New Jersey this year, as we continue to undo the devastation wrought by Superstorm Sandy. I want to stress another R – registration – for roofers, masons, window installers or any other type of home improvement contractor," said Eric T. Kanefsky, Acting Director of the State Division of Consumer Affairs. "Consumers need to verify that the contractor is registered before hiring anyone and before paying any money."

Complaints against Home Improvement Contractors were the second largest category of consumer complaints filed with the Division last year.  A total of 1,528 complaints were received and even more are anticipated in 2013 because of the widespread rebuilding and repair needed following Superstorm Sandy.

State law requires registered HICs to display their registration number on commercial vehicles, in ads, on their websites and on consumer contracts.  In order to become registered, a home improvement contractor must provide proof of at least $500,000 in liability insurance and disclose the physical location of the business, among other requirements.

HICs also are required to provide consumers with written contracts for work in excess of $500.  The contract should include detailed information, such as start and completion dates, all work to be performed and the specific products to be used.  It is customary not to pay for the entire home improvement project in advance. The general rule of thumb is to pay no more than one-third beforehand, one-third halfway through, and one-third upon completion.

Consumers can access the Division's online database at http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/LVinfo.htm to check whether an HIC is registered. Apple device users may check the database via an app that is free for download at New Jersey Professional License Lookup App . Consumers also can call the Division toll-free at 800-242-5846 and ask whether the contractor is duly registered and if other consumers have filed complaints against the contractor.

NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK (NCPW) is a coordinated campaign that encourages consumers nationwide to take full advantage of their consumer rights and make better-informed decisions. NCPW 2013 runs from March 3 through 9 and additional information is available at www.NCPW.gov. 

 IMPORTANT TIP:

Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of marketplace abuse, can file a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 (toll free within New Jersey) or 973-504-6200.

Follow the Division of Consumer Affairs on Facebook, and check our online calendar of upcoming Consumer Outreach events.

Reference: 

http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/press/03042013b.htm

4 Hard Facts About The Housing Recovery

http://www.worldpropertychannel.com/north-america-residential-news/improving-housing-markets-national-association-of-home-buildersfirst-american-improving-markets-index-imi-housing-markets-report-nahb-6340.php

Written by: Lou Basenese
When I boldly predicted three months ago that the U.S. real estate market hit rock bottom, many subscribers objected. Vehemently.

One in particular told me to keep my crackpot predictions to myself. And then, a la Sgt. Joe Friday in “Dragnet,” he said, “All we want are the facts, Lou.”

I thought that’s what I provided on April 9, when I shared 11 irrefutable signs of a real estate recovery.

Maybe it was my wording – “signs” instead of “facts.” So today, let me make sure there’s no misunderstanding.

The real estate recovery is under way. And here are 11 more irrefutable facts to prove it…

Real Estate Recovery Fact #1: Better-Than-Expected Homebuilder Profits

On March 27, Lennar Corp. (LEN) – the nation’s second-largest homebuilder – beat analyst expectations for earnings by 100%. New orders increased 33%. Backlog grew 39%. And total sales rose 30%.

Then, on April 23, D.R. Horton (DHI) – the nation’s largest homebuilder – beat analyst expectations for earnings by 225%. (That marks the second consecutive quarter of stronger-than-expected profits.) New orders increased 19%. Backlog grew by 17%. And total sales rose 28%.

Real Estate Recovery Fact #2: Improving Builder Sentiment

With homebuilders putting up better results, we’d expect their outlook to be rosier. And it is.

On May 15, the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index rose to 29 from 24 in April. That’s the strongest reading since May 2007. It’s also a dramatic improvement from the reading of 14 registered just seven months ago.

Real Estate Recovery Fact #3: More Housing Starts

Homebuilders’ good results and good feelings are translating into increased activity, too.

On May 16, the Commerce Department reported new housing starts rose 2.6% to an annual rate of 717,000 units in April. And March’s figures were revised upward from an annual rate of 654,000 to 699,000.

Real Estate Recovery Fact #4: More New Home Sales

If you’re afraid homebuilders are getting ahead of the market, don’t be. Spring and summer typically bring out the buyers. And the facts show that’s happening once again.

Reference Article:
http://seekingalpha.com/article/616751-11-more-hard-facts-about-the-housing-recovery

Top Five Kitchen Lighting Trends for Spring 2013

http://www.houselogic.com/blog/kitchens/kichen-remodeling-trends-2012/

Lamps Plus Identifies Best Selling Designs and Newest Trends in Kitchen Lighting and Redecorating.

The heart of the home, the kitchen is often the prime target for home improvement and lighting makeovers. As the last of the winter storms recede and spring nears, people are starting to gear up for these projects. Lamps Plus, the nation’s largest lighting retailer has identified the top five kitchen lighting trends for spring 2013, culled from customer favorites and the latest looks from home furnishing trade shows.

“In lighting the kitchen, people these days are thinking function first, form second. You want to meet the needs of your space, but in way that’s stylish and personal,” explains Manja Swanson, Vice President and Designer at Lamps Plus. “We recently published our 2013 Kitchen and Bathroom Lighting catalog in an effort to highlight the designs that are trending most among our customers and the design community at large.”

“Sustainability is definitely a hot topic among customers, and when it comes to conserving energy and landfills, LED lighting is tops,” explains Swanson. Using just a fraction of the electricity of incandescent bulbs and with a lifespan as much as fifty times longer, LED lighting points towards an ultra-green future for the lighting industry.

Stylish and multi-functional, the hanging pendant light is the definitive aesthetic trend for the foreseeable future. “Mini pendant lights are most popular of all,” explains Swanson. “They can be hung in a row over bars or islands, bunched or clustered for a contemporary DIY chandelier, or mixed and matched for a playful eclectic look.” Industrial pendant light fixtures and vintage Edison bulbs in particular are a popular style for converted lofts, as well as commercial spaces like bars and restaurants. With a variety of finishes, from sleek brushed steel to art glass, pendant designs can express the unique personalities of the homemakers, or businesses, who use them.

“The most effective upgrades are often those a person can’t even see,” says Swanson. “Under cabinet lightsprovide both ambient and task for lighting countertops.” Available in a variety of bulb types, under cabinet lighting tucks discretely to the underside of kitchen cabinets and can be chained together to meet any room size or configuration. “For an easy-to-install under cabinet option, our customers are increasingly using tape lights and puck lights. These designs adapt to fit most spaces, adhere to your cabinets with tape or screw mount bracket, and are easy to power without the help of an electrician.”

Track lighting is the multi-tasking workhorse among lighting fixtures. “The kitchen has become more than a place to prepare meals. It’s a place where kids study, families dine, and, as is often the case, the party inevitably migrates. Track lighting has been very popular, available in a range of fresh new designs.” The light heads on these versatile fixtures can be moved up and down along a track and adjusted to spot light particular locations such as food prep areas, shelves or photos and artwork. An offshoot of the track style, the track lighting kit is an easy-to-install fixture that mounts easily onto a ceiling junction box, just like an overhead ceiling light. Unlike traditional track lighting, the heads on these kits cannot be moved up and down along the length of the fixture.

Lastly, for specific work areas such as the sink or stovetop, recessed lights are a perennial favorite. Tucked discreetly into the ceiling, these fixtures consist of a housing that installs into the ceiling, a trim, and a light bulb. Recessed lighting comes with a variety of bulb options to address a kitchen’s specific needs, such as for sink and counter areas and adjustable, focused lights for stovetops and wall art. Recessed lighting can also be used in conjunction with a wall dimmer, making them an excellent ambient lighting source as well.

ABOUT LAMPS PLUS 

For more than 30 years, Lamps Plus has been synonymous with excellence in the retail lighting industry. Established in 1976, Lamps Plus is the nation’s largest lighting retailer, with more than 40 lighting stores throughout the western United States. Together with their retail locations and online business, Lamps Plus serves customers nationwide with the largest selection of functional and decorative lighting fixtures, accessories, furniture and home decor. This selection includes hundreds of products, ranging from traditional chandeliers to the latest in home decor, available exclusively from Lamps Plus. Services include in-home lighting consultations, in-store workshops and installation from expert, licensed electricians. American Lighting Association certified designers are available to offer product recommendations and advice in all our stores, by phone or online at LampsPlus.com. The Lamps Plus family of websites also includes 55 Downing Street, Lighting Luxury Style, Builders Discount Lighting, and Lamps Plus Open Box.

Thank you for reading!


201-726-2846
www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com

What are 203K Loans?

http://www.orangecountyfunding.com/fha-home-loans/fha-203k-renovation-loans/

Plan your Model Home using a 203K Renovation Package in combination with your FHA Loan.   

• Have you found that Foreclosure or just a Home that has the ideal floor plan but needs too much work?  
• How would you like to have this home become your dream home renovated exactly the way you wanted it? 
• What most people don't know about is an FHA 203K Renovation Package.   Say the home costs $100000 but needs $30000 in renovation costs.  As long as it will appraise once repaired at $130000 you can use an FHA 203 K loan and move into your dream home.  

Did you find a HUD home that is uninsurable and won't qualify for an FHA loan?  Then you can purchase that home using an FHA 203K loan. 

A 203 (k) Loan is a type of mortgage that can be used to rehabilitate the home you are living in (done as refinancing), or a home you are looking to purchase. You can also rehab a multi-family single-dwelling with a 203 (k) Loan.

203 (k) Loans are offered via the Housing and Urban Development Office (HUD) of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The 203 (k) Loan allows a borrower to roll the costs of the rehabilitation into the mortgage as opposed to finding separate financing for your rehab job.

While 203 (k) loans sound like a good idea, the process can be very time consuming and difficult according to Todd Barron, president of Applied Mortgage Services in Northampton, Mass. “In the past 18 months I started the process on six 203 (k) loans and not a single one ended up closing,” said Barron.

What’s good about a 203 (k) Loan

• You can borrow funds (as part of a mortgage) to replace your roof, get a new furnace, weatherize, upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, etc.
• You can use the money to significantly improve energy efficiency, such as installing solar panels for electricity or a hot water system or new windows.
• You don’t need to have a lot of equity in your home.
• You can improve the value of the home you want to buy right off the bat.
• You can correct Title 5 (septic) issues before moving in.

The downside to 203 (k) Loans

First of all, there are fewer and fewer lenders willing to administer this type of loan, so your first problem may be locating a willing lender. The property must then be appraised. The lender can not close on the loan unless the condition and value of the house are thoroughly assessed. The mortgage is based on the projected value of the property once the rehab is completed.

Barron said there are two types of 203 (k) loans, a “full-blown” standard loan and a “streamlined” loan. Barron said his company is moving away from standard 203 (k) loans.

Also, adding the rehab component to your mortgage usually raises the interest rate by about a half-percent according to Barron. “Another half percent isn’t a lot, but it makes it (a 203 (k) Loan) less attractive,” he said.

Barron gave the example of purchasing a $150,000 house and wanting to do $30,000 worth of renovations as being worth-while in terms of a slightly higher interest rate. If you wanted to purchase a $280,000 house and do $20,000 worth of renovations, Barron suggested looking at other loan options such as home improvement loans once you purchase the property. Depending on where you live, there are maximum allowable borrowing limits (prior to renovating) for properties.

Standard 203 (k) Loan

Barron said that one of the most difficult aspects of the standard loan is the requirement to have an appointed plan reviewer in order to have FHA approval. The plan reviewer meets with the customer and determines the scope of work. “The plan reviewer has a lot of power. For example, they may require you to add another $25,000 to the project in order to meet HUD guidelines,” said Barron.

The project reviewer has a lot of control over who is hired for the project (s) and ultimately make the decisions on who to hire based on estimates. The project reviewer does a feasibility study that can take “one day or two to three weeks,” said Barron.

Streamlined 203 (k) Loans

Barron said that one of the major differences between a standard and streamlined loan is the maximum amount that can be borrowed is $35,000. “This includes permits, inspection fees, and a ten percent contingency reserve,” said Barron. “So, what you really have is $30,000 to $31,000 for renovation.” Barron said that in the streamlined loan, only specific types of rehab can be done to a property. “You can’t do substantial structural repair,” he said. The plan reviewer in a streamlined loan will allow the customer to seek out estimates themselves and make their own choices regarding which contractor to use.

There are still a wide range of projects that can be done with the streamlined loan, including most energy efficiency improvements.

There are some state-to-state differences that apply to the loans, but most are not usually significant according to Barron.

For more information on HUD guidelines relating to 203 (k) Loans, go to: http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/203k/203kabou.cfm

Resource:

http://www.ksbw.com/Beginner-s-guide-to-203-k-loans/-/1824/18263048/-/format/rsss_2.0/item/0/-/f6qfpl/-/index.html

Dont Forget For Those interested in 203K Loans! - We work with the state for those applying for these specific loans as this is a specific type of Renovation Work. Give me a call if you need remodeling and home renovation projects for these kinds of loans! - We also assist with the process of acquiring this kind of loan in conjunction with our work. 

Thank you for reading!


201-726-2846
www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com

Drought & Foundation Damage

This year, the United States experienced the worst drought of the past 50 years. Along with the obvious crippling damage to crop production, other less-apparent damage may be affecting homeowners without their knowledge.Dry soil shrinks, and when a home’s foundation is surrounded by shrinking soil, structural damage can result. Visible gaps in the walls, loud cracking sounds, tilting walls – these are some of the telltale signs of foundation damage. Along with these, we’ve created a checklist for homeowners who might have experienced damage due to the drought this summer.

Warning signs

When dry soil pulls away from a home’s foundation, the foundation may sink or crack.

Some of the earliest signs of foundation damage may be mistakenly misinterpreted as the home settling: Windows don’t open easily, doors get caught in jambs and no longer align with locks. But these small signs might be the result of something larger and more problematic. Cracks might appear in the walls or ceilings. If you hear a sound similar to a gunshot, this might be the actual concrete in the foundation cracking. And if the walls begin to noticeably lean, it’s likely the foundation has been damaged.

If your house has experienced any of these signs, don’t be too quick to dismiss them as minor, cosmetic problems. Instead, contact a reputable company to assess the situation before the problem worsens.

Repairs

If superficial damage leads to the discovery of structural damage, it’s important to contact professional structural engineerswho are equipped to handle extensive foundation repair. Experts say that it’s important to take care of foundation problems sooner rather than later, as the damages will only worsen as time goes on. Unfortunately, structural damage can’t be solved by replacing doors, locks and windows. Instead, repairs often involve the installation of steel and concrete tubes, or pilings, that drive down beneath the troubled soil to secure the foundation on bedrock. While these repairs may be expensive, they can prevent the same problem from happening the next time drought occurs.

Prevention and awareness

Homes in the Midwest have been especially at risk to foundation damage caused by the drought due to the large amounts of clay in the soil. Clay is more prone to movement and shifting when moisture isn’t present. So, if you live in an area with high concentrations of clay, look carefully for signs of foundation damage.

Look for gaps in the soil surrounding your house, as this can be a sign of dry soil. If water restrictions aren’t in place in your local community, you can install soaker hoses to water the soil around your home. Also, some experts suggest mulching the surrounding area as this decreases the amount of evaporation.

If your surrounding area has experienced drought, prepare for rain, as a sudden increase of water to the soil can cause erosion. Keep gutters clean and make sure downspouts drain several feet away from the foundation. The drought has caused extensive damage across the country, costing millions of dollars. And many homeowners aren’t aware of the potential for foundation damage. Check your foundation now, and take steps to remedy any problems, so you can continue living in your home for years to come.

Article Provided by: http://blog.homerenovationguide.com

Thank you for reading!

201-726-2846

www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com

Bathroom Renovations

There’s no better way to increase the value of your home than bathroom renovations. Performing this type of upgrade will always give you back the best return. The bathroom is an area of the home that can be easily reborn with new fixtures and a paint job. The best places to build sweat equity in any home are bathroom and kitchen renovations.

Let’s say you have a New Jersey home renovation specialist come in and do the job. You’ll get a much more comfortable home with updated features and appliances when you build a new kitchen or bath. The return on your investment will be the number that surprises most people. A large portion of what you spend will show up in the new home value.

When you’re looking for someone to do remodeling work, you’ll be best advised to check with family and friends. Get all of the recommendations you can get. Draw on the experience these trusted sources have found to be solid contractors. Any word of mouth reference you can get will be a good place to start your list of service companies.

If you’re a brand new homeowner then you may have to start out cold and search the local phone book. You’ll want to make a list so you can at least explore all of your available options. Take any referrals you may have and add them to the top of the list. You’ll need to call them all and speak with them a while about your job and the services they offer.

Take a New Jersey renovation for example. You’ll call all of the available contractors that you can find and have them all price the job. Some will be completely out of the ball park and most likely they don’t need the work. Your best bet will always be somewhere in the middle for price.

Bathroom renovations almost always require a permit, and many locations restrict this type of work to licensed plumbers. Make sure the contractor you hire is licensed and also insured to perform the work you’ll need done. There are inspections required in most places as well, so make sure your service company follows through on all of the legal paperwork.

New Castle Builder has done bathrooms for over 15 years now and from which the majority of work comes from word of mouth marketing. Our clients feel safe with us enough to refer our services to their friends and family. We do take up projects working for the state meaning that the state entrusts us with their projects carrying all of the necessary licenses and performing a quality job. 

Thank you for reading!
www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com 

201-726-2846

Tips for smooth home renovation

Renovation and modification is inevitable to keep the house in best condition and to make the necessary changes for a more comfortable living. Restituting your house can be an exciting experience and even a dream come true for many. But the stress it brings along with the disruption in your daily routine can make your home a difficult place to live in. On the similar note, I’ll discuss few points below that would help you in keeping a cool composure in the most tiresome situations:

Get recommendations        

The last thing you want is your renovated house not being up at par with your expectations or a friend suggesting some brilliant idea and you wishing only if you had heard it earlier. So in order to avoid all the above situations get your plan approved by as many people as you can and invite their suggestions. You’ll be amazed to find, how the final project is much better than the one you started with initially.

Be flexible  

Renovations consume a lot of time, energy and cost. But nevertheless no matter how thorough your planning was, the execution will give varied results. The execution of the projects on time is not unheard of, but still be prepared to modify and adapt your plans as per the situation.

Home preparations    

 Nothing can be worse than restructuring with tons of scattered home belongings. You’ll be already aware about the part of the house to be renovated. So, it would be helpful and suitable to clear out the area. Pack them securely and store them in a safe location. If you are planning a complete house renovation, then you can avail the option of storage services. Excluding the essentials, pack your belongings and store them off to the local storage service until your renovated house is complete. This would not only protect your expensive home items but also simplify the execution of the renovating project.

The emergency budget  

Your planned budget does not include the creative ideas that you might get during renovation. Whether it’s some obstacle that needs to be removed or an insightful idea that needs to be executed, the emergency budget would ease down the stress level.  At all restructuring levels, the emergency budget is the key for the successful project execution.

Be open to changes      

While you have the manpower and tools at your disposal, it would be beneficial to be on the lookout for any aspects that need changes. It would be disheartening and stressful to find any area in the end product that still needs some work. Be open-minded and feasible about the required changes and modify your plan accordingly at the right time.

Be attentive      

 Make your contractor write up every restructuring detail before you sign the contract. This would save your time, money and the unnecessary hassle. Plan each and every detail about the new things to be installed and the incurring cost for the installation.

www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com

201-726-2846

newcastlebuilder@gmail.com

The New Jersey Builders Association Responds To Hurricane Sandy

Hamilton, NJ, November 5, 2012– 

The New Jersey Builders Association (NJBA), the state’s leading trade organization for the home building industry, extends its heartfelt thoughts and prayers to those individuals and families who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy. On behalf of NJBA and its local affiliates throughout the state, Winfield (“Ziggy”) Ziegenfuss, Jr., NJBA President, expresses concern and offers guidance on rebuilding, as well as the Association’s commitment to the residents of New Jersey.

“As is characteristic of the people of New Jersey during difficult times, I am confident that our strong sense of community will pull us together to rebuild our lives, homes and communities.  NJBA members are available to offer their expertise to assist our neighbors in any way possible. The New Jersey Builders Association’s registered and experienced builders/remodelers are among the best in the nation.”

“I applaud Governor Chris Christie for his exceptional leadership throughout this crisis, as well as the local elected officials and emergency response personnel. Thank you for your efforts in ensuring the safety of our citizens and in attempting to mitigate any further impacts from the storm.”

In response to the devastation many of the residents of New Jersey have experienced, NJBA offers the following:

As you begin the process of repairing your home, make sure that you take the proper precautions in hiring contractors. Ensure that you are dealing with a reputable registered contractor. Verify the company’s business address and references. Insist on a written contract and DON’T pay cash up front.  Visit http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/brief/improve.pdf for additional tips on contractors and visit http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/LVinfo.htm to determine if a contractor is registered in New Jersey.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) provides information on disaster relief for consumers and the building industry alike.  This is available at www.NJBA.org/sandy and includes tips and guidance on how to hire a contractor, avoid scams, as well as other valuable information.

The Shore Builders Association of Central NJ (SBACNJ) has secured warehouse space, donated by Ferguson Enterprises, to accept donations of hard goods (blankets, clothing, building materials, etc.).  The warehouse is located at 190 Oberlin Avenue, Lakewood NJ and will be open to accept donations from 9:00 am to noon, Monday through Friday.  For additional information, contact Gina Woolley at 732-364-2828.

The Foundation for Housing, an affiliate of NJBA, has made a substantial donation to the Hurricane Sandy NJ Relief Fund. Governor and Mrs. Christie established this Fund to aide, comfort and rebuild New Jersey. Interested parties can also support this very worthwhile cause at www.NJBA.org/sandy.

Interested persons can also support the American Red Cross and Salvation Army. You can donate money directly to these organizations at www.redcross.org or www.salvationarmyusa.org. NJBA is hard at work developing additional programs to aid New Jerseyans. The NJBA agrees with Governor Christie’s sentiment that “this State is a family and when we have difficult moments like this we pull together like a family.”  NJBA takes its role in supporting our family seriously and we stand ready to help.

About the New Jersey Builders Association (NJBA)

The New Jersey Builders Association (NJBA) is the leading trade association for the construction industry. Members include residential and commercial builders, developers, remodelers, subcontractors, suppliers, engineers, architects, consultants and other professionals. NJBA serves as a resource for its members through continuing education and advocacy. NJBA and its members strive for a more vibrant, greener, and affordable housing market in New Jersey. Additional information is available at www.njba.org. 

New Castle Builder LLC

201-726-2846

www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com

newcastlebuilder@gmail.com

Commercial Property Hallway Renovation

Project Details: 

• Installation of Vinyl Flooring 

• Installation of New Light Fixtures 

• Wood Restoration of Trim + Molding + Stair Case

• Install Safety Steps 

• Repaint walls 

201-726-2846
info@newcastlebuilder.com
www.nj-newcastlebuilder.com