The pre-inspection report you requested before buying the house will give you information related to repairs that may be needed now and in the very near future. There are minor repairs to the house that you will be able to perform such as replacing a broken window, caulking tile in the bathroom, weather stripping, or painting. For typical repairs you’ll need to have the following basic tools:

• Hammer

• Straight blade and Phillips screwdriver (or combination screwdriver with interchangeable tips)

• Slip joint pliers

• Handsaw

• Wall scraper

• Tape measure

• Flashlight

• Plunger (one that works for both sinks and toilets)

Other repairs will require the service of a contractor. You will need to know how to find a contractor, who is reputable.

Here are a few guidelines you can follow to help you make the right selection:

Talk to people in you neighborhood to get the names of contractors suitable to do the repairs that are needed. You should also use local publications to put together a list of contractors.

Arrange to have the contractors visit you for an interview and a discussion of the work that needs to be done. Ask the contractor for the address of a property where you can see what work has been done.

Get free cost estimates from the contractors. Ask them to give you an estimate in writing in the form of a final bid with a date that work will be started and completed.

A contract specifying what work is to be performed, all material and labor for the project, when payments are due, when work is to be completed etc., should be signed by you and the contractor you selected. It is important to hold back about 10 percent of the payment until after the work is completed.

The contractor should be required to obtain necessary permits and make sure the work is inspected, if required by local government

Be sure the contractor has liability insurance that includes bodily or personal injury, and property damage.

The contractor should provide a reasonable time of guaranteeing the work that is to be performed. Thirty days is normal, but the type of work performed should be considered. Manufacturers; warranties could apply for a product that was installed by the contractor.

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