Erik Brogan of Minnesota is a seasoned contractor in the field of home remodeling, who sheds light on the paramount importance of entrusting projects to licensed professionals. In the following article, Erik Brogan discusses the myriad benefits that come with this crucial decision, from enhanced quality and adherence to industry standards to legal protections and peace of mind. Those who know their way around a hammer love nothing more than a bit of DIY, but licensed and insured contractors exist for a reason. When tackling large projects like home remodels, these professionals can be the difference between a project that finishes flawlessly and one that exceeds the budget and hits numerous blockades. Erik Brogan says licensed contractors are held to incredibly strict standards, ensuring they're more than qualified to bring remodeling dreams to life.

Erik Brogan of Minnesota Says That Licensed = Experienced

To receive their license, contractors must have at least four years of experience in their field and pass a law, business, and trade exam. Add that to the knowledge and skills necessary to complete their daily project tasks, and the benefits of hiring a licensed professional become evident. Even though many people are tempted by the vast array of services offered by unlicensed contractors, not every contractor can or should do it all. Those with licenses carry classifications, ensuring homeowners know exactly what they're qualified to do. The three classes are as follows:

• Class A — The General Engineering Contractor license signifies the contractor deals with work requiring specialized engineering know-how.
• Class B — Professionals who hold the General Building Contractor license can work on structures that need at least two different crafts or building trades.
• Class C — Otherwise known as the Specialty Contractor license, the holder takes on work that needs specialized skills and/or trades.

Erik Brogan of Minnesota says that some state laws necessitate contractors keep updated with various education topics. As such, hiring a licensed professional means getting somebody who understands their role(s) and responsibilities intimately.

Getting It Right the First Time

Many homeowners have accomplished a few improvement projects through DIY methods. However, tackling major remodels is a whole different beast. Thus, hiring a contractor is the smartest decision. Whether it's laying hardwood flooring, tiling the kitchen, completely renovating the bathroom, or demolishing a wall, professionals ensure everything is performed safely and correctly the first time around. Needing to redo projects due to failed attempts can easily double budgets and turn otherwise enjoyable tasks into money pits.

Insurance Coverage Always Plays a Key Role

Erik Brogan explains that reputable, licensed contractors also come with insurance policies that protect homeowners and themselves. Should something happen during a remodel (i.e., injuries or property damage), contractors' insurance offsets the damages. While some may argue that the likelihood of a catastrophe occurring during some projects is rather small, insurance is a way of safeguarding everybody involved should life throw a wrench into the works.

Providing Peace of Mind

Remodeling alone can seem like a good idea until things start going wrong. At which point, homeowners are typically forced into hiring a professional's help anyway. So, experts like Erik Brogan encourage people to skip the headaches and enlist the help of a licensed, insured contractor from the get-go. Professionals oversee the entire project, ensuring budgets are stuck to and it's completed on time. It removes the burden from the homeowner, allowing them to sit back and enjoy watching their dreams become realities. Naturally, Erik Brogan notes that true peace of mind only occurs when goals and needs are communicated early on. Provided that's done and dusted, there's nothing blocking the path to a healthy working relationship and a flawlessly executed project.

Taking Care of All Liabilities and Legal Run-Ins

Hiring unlicensed contractors or attempting to DIY the entire remodel puts homeowners in sticky situations right off the bat. In some states, failing to hire a licensed professional can lead to a misdemeanor or felony charges. Additionally, state licenses aren't transferable, so professionals are intimately aware of the relevant state requirements and regulations. Unlicensed contractors, however, may attempt to cut corners throughout the project since they aren't encumbered by the severe consequences of licensed professionals. Erik Brogan notes that the safety regulations and general protocols necessitated by governing bodies are stringent. So much so that staying abreast of them as a hobbyist is impossible. Letting insured, licensed contractors take on this weight is a savvy (and safe) move.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, entrusting a remodeling project to a licensed contractor is an investment in peace of mind and quality assurance. Their expertise, adherence to industry standards, and access to necessary permits ensure a seamless and successful outcome. By mitigating risks and potential legal complications, homeowners not only save time and money but also gain the confidence that comes with a job well done. With a licensed contractor, vision becomes reality, backed by professionalism and expertise.