It’s time to bring your dream home to life with excellent Window Blinds. You’ve hired a contractor to take care of those renovations you’ve been wishing for. Before the hammer starts swinging, make sure you’ve got a firm home improvement contract in place.Home improvements are big business, now more than ever before. Some jobs are relatively minor, like a new kitchen floor or a landscaping job. On the other hand, swimming pool installations and entire kitchen renovations require more time, skill, material and money. Whether your home improvement job is big or small, if you need to hire a professional, then you also need a solid home improvement contract.So, what should you know before signing the dotted line?Shop AroundDon’t just agree to sign a contract with the first home improvement professional you meet. Ask around for referrals from people you know and trust. Once you’ve compiled a list of contractor names, get their professional license numbers. This will allow you to perform a background check using services available to you, such as the Better Business Bureau or your state or provincial Consumer Affairs’ business licensing division.Match the names with the numbers, and follow up on any complaints that may have been issued against the contractors. Be as thorough as you would when checking references with a new employee.List Your TermsYou’ve done all of your background checks and chosen your contractor. Now, it’s time to negotiate and sign your home improvement contract. There is a list of concise information that you should look for in your written home improvement contract.First of all, look for the full information of the building contractor or company, including the professional license number. Make sure that your home improvement contract includes every detail of the project, including start and completion dates. All financial details like material costs, labor fees and payment arrangements must also be clearly disclosed.One of the most important points on your contract should be a ‘right to cancel’ agreement that gives you the opportunity to change your mind about the contract that you have signed. This agreement will generally allow three days’ grace, during which time you are free to cancel. The contract should also protect you in the event that an unforeseen circumstance occurs after the project has started.Don’t forget to list the small items on your contract as well. While the contractors are working on your property, they are going to require the use of certain facilities. For example, let them know if you are uncomfortable with them using your washroom and telephone. In this case, they’ll need to make alternate arrangements.Watch Your AssetsA copy of the home improvement contract, signed by you and the contractor, must be filed in a safe place even after the project has been completed. Any and all guarantees must be clearly noted on the contract to give you legal recourse if there is a problem with materials or workmanship. Pay no more than the minimum guaranteed down payment, and wait until the project has been completely finished and all of the debris has been cleared away before you pay the remainder of the agreed price.It’s your responsibility to protect your property and your own best interests. Do not sign a home improvement contract that hasn’t been completely filled in. Take the time to read the contract in its entirety and ask questions if you are confused by any terms. Your home is your castle, after all, and a home improvement contract should offer all the protection you need.