Owning a home is a source of pride and joy for many people, but it can also come with a variety of maintenance challenges. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or have been settled in for years, there are always aspects of your property that deserve attention. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to stay proactive and aware of any potential issues that could affect the long-term comfort, safety, and value of your property.

In this blog post, we’ll highlight several things homeowners can be thankful for and look out for when assessing their homes, while also offering a service checklist that can help a general contractor assist homeowners in identifying and addressing potential problems. By understanding these key areas of concern, homeowners can ensure their property remains in excellent condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.

1. Foundation and Structural Integrity

The foundation is the cornerstone of your home, and it’s essential to be grateful for its strength while also vigilant about potential issues. Cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, or doors and windows that don’t close properly could indicate settling or structural issues.

What to Look For:

• Visible cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings
• Bowed or slanted floors
• Gaps or difficulty opening/closing windows and doors

Services to Consider:

• Foundation inspection
• Structural engineering evaluation
• Slab leveling or foundation repair

2. Roof Condition

A solid roof over your head is something to be extremely thankful for, but it’s easy to overlook until there’s a leak or damage. A well-maintained roof not only protects your home from the elements but also contributes to energy efficiency by regulating temperature.

What to Look For:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Water stains on ceilings or walls (which could indicate leaks)
• Sagging areas or visible holes

Services to Consider:

• Roof inspection and repair
• Gutter cleaning and maintenance
• Roof replacement if necessary

3. HVAC System

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are often out of sight and out of mind, but they’re essential for comfort throughout the year. Whether it’s the heat of summer or the cold of winter, a functioning HVAC system can make all the difference.

What to Look For:

• Inconsistent temperatures across different rooms
• Unusual sounds or odors when the system is running
• High energy bills (indicating inefficiency)

Services to Consider:

• HVAC system inspection
• Duct cleaning and sealing
• Furnace and AC tune-ups or replacement

4. Plumbing System

Water is a fundamental part of daily life, so it’s important to be thankful for a working plumbing system while also checking for any potential issues. Leaky pipes, clogged drains, or water damage can escalate quickly if not addressed.

What to Look For:

• Leaky faucets, pipes, or toilets
• Low water pressure
• Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
• Strange sounds coming from pipes (e.g., banging or gurgling)

Services to Consider:

• Plumbing inspection
• Pipe replacement or repairs
• Drain cleaning and clog prevention

5. Electrical System

Your home’s electrical system powers everything from lights to appliances, so maintaining it is essential. Outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and faulty outlets can pose serious risks, including fire hazards.

What to Look For:

• Flickering lights or tripped circuit breakers
• Outlets that are warm to the touch or discolored
• Overloaded extension cords or too many devices plugged into one outlet

Services to Consider:

• Electrical inspection by a licensed electrician
• Wiring upgrades or repairs
• Outlet and circuit breaker replacements

6. Exterior and Landscaping

Curb appeal is a reflection of how much care you put into your home, and it’s important to stay on top of exterior maintenance. Overgrown trees or shrubs can lead to foundation damage, while poor drainage can result in water damage to the home.

What to Look For:

• Cracked or uneven sidewalks and driveways
• Overgrown trees or bushes near the home’s foundation
• Poor drainage, including water pooling near the foundation
• Exterior paint peeling or chipping

Services to Consider:

• Landscape maintenance or tree trimming
• Concrete repair or replacement for walkways and driveways
• Drainage system inspection and improvement

7. Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Good insulation can save you money on heating and cooling bills and improve your home’s overall comfort. Whether it’s outdated insulation, drafts, or inefficient windows, there are numerous ways to enhance energy efficiency.

What to Look For:

• Drafts near windows, doors, or outlets
• High energy bills despite moderate usage
• Cold or hot spots in rooms
• Condensation on windows

Services to Consider:

• Insulation inspection and upgrade
• Window and door sealing or replacement
• Energy audit to assess efficiency

8. Windows and Doors

Properly functioning windows and doors contribute to your home’s security, energy efficiency, and overall aesthetic. Damaged or poorly sealed windows can lead to drafts, water intrusion, and higher utility costs.

What to Look For:

• Cracks or broken glass in windows
• Drafts around windows or doors
• Difficulty locking or opening doors and windows
• Condensation between window panes

Services to Consider:

• Window and door repair or replacement
• Weatherstripping installation
• Energy-efficient window upgrades

Conclusion: Being Proactive Can Save You Money

Being thankful for a home that functions smoothly is a wonderful feeling, but it’s equally important to be proactive in maintaining its condition. Regular inspections and taking care of small issues before they become major problems can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

The post Things to Be Thankful for: A Service Checklist for Homeowners to Identify Potential Issues appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

It’s that time of year in Chicago where everyone is gearing up for the cold weather that will soon be upon us. Have you thought about your home’s preparation for the winter weather? The rain, snow, and cold can cause a slew of problems for your home that can lead to major damage. If you take care of these now, you will protect your home while also preventing expensive unnecessary repairs down the road. Here are a few things you will want to make sure are taken care of before the winter weather hits. 

Furnace

Arguably the most important unit in your home when the winter hits is your furnace. Have you been actively changing the furnace filter? Any signs that it may be ready to give out? We are here to help. Most heating and air systems typically last 12 to 15 years.It’s much better to find a furnace problem in the warmer temperatures of the fall than it is to find your furnace doesn’t work on a sub zero day. 

Outside Exterior

Whether you have siding, brick or another outside exterior, it is imperative to make sure that it is sealed and ready to handle the stresses of the winter. There are a variety of sealant solutions that can be applied to masonry work. Siding can be fixed and patched to prevent any unnecessary moisture as well. Preventing moisture from entering your home will prevent drywall damage as well as insulation damage. 

Concrete 

If your concrete is cracking and damage is already visible, the salt that melts the snow will not do any favors.  Landau Real Estate can  place control joints in your concrete to try to ensure cracking is limited. Take the time to inspect your concrete and fill in any cracks before you apply sealer so that water cannot get in and freeze over the winter. This should ensure your expensive concrete work lasts a very long time.

Gutters

Your gutters will be stressed over the winter months. With heavy snow and rain, the cleaning of your gutters is important. Make sure your gutters are completely clean of the fall leaves as well as any other things that can fall in during the windy fall months. If you have gutters that are loose or damaged you will want to make sure those are corrected before winter arrives.

Doors & Windows

Are you feeling a draft come in through your windows and doors now? If you are, it will only get worse. Check your doors and windows closely for gaps and areas that may cause a draft. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up, or consider replacing the windows or doors if the problem is severe enough.

Drainage
Drainage is extremely important during winter. Check to see if the soil around your foundation hasn’t settled, which allows water to pool at your foundation. Also make sure to  check your rain gutter downspouts. Make sure water is getting moved away from the home. Add downspout extenders if necessary. Saturated soil around a foundation can create real problems as it freezes and thaws throughout the winter months.

As we exit fall and enter winter, these items are an absolute must to address. Landau Real Estate is equipped with all the capabilities to solve any of these problems. If you are concerned with your home’s condition to handle a cold Chicago winter, contact us for assistance in getting your home prepared. 

The post Prepare Your Home For Winter appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

By now, you may have heard the adage “Better safe than sorry.” This couldn’t be truer when you’re thinking about hiring a general contractor. Licensed, bonded, and insured contractors can provide you with the peace of mind you need, knowing that your project is in capable hands. A general contractor with these qualifications can assure you that they are accountable for their work and that they protect your money, property, and interests at all times. It’s a no-brainer to hire a general contractor with these credentials.

There are several reasons why you should only hire licensed, bonded, and insured general contractors. Firstly, working with licensed and insured contractors means they follow established industry standards, codes and are covered in case there are any accidents or damages during the project. Even if they have experience and offer a good price, you should not work with a general contractor who is not licensed, bonded, and insured. Here’s why.

1. License

In the United States, most states require a general contractor to obtain a license in order to legally operate. A license assures that the contractor has the necessary knowledge, experience, and skills to do the job right. It’s also proof that the general contractor has passed certain technical and safety-related tests. Unlicensed contractors may save you money in the short term, but they end up costing you much more in terms of both money and time in the long term. That’s why you should always hire licensed general contractors. They can provide you with a written contract, offer warranties, and provide a written estimate.

2. Bond

A bond is a surety agreement issued by a third-party bonding company that guarantees you will be compensated if the general contractor does not complete the job as outlined in the contract. Bonds protect you from financial loss due to a contractor’s failure to perform their job within the established timeframe or according to the contract terms. A bonded general contractor is one who has demonstrated their financial strength and ability to manage a project in compliance with the contract. You should ask your general contractor if they are bonded and, if so, request a copy of their bond before you begin the project.

3. Insurance

Given how dangerous the construction industry can be, insurance is a must-have. Furthermore, think about all the valuable materials and fixtures that could be destroyed or stolen during the project. Your general contractor must also have proper insurance coverage that will protect you in case of property damage or injury to themselves or others on the job site. The two most important insurances your general contractor should have are Commercial General Liability and Workers’ Compensation. Hiring a general contractor with an insurance policy protects you from financial losses if anything goes wrong during the job.

4. A Dedicated Project Manager

A licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor provides an assurance that you are not alone in the construction process. They have a representative, known as a Project Manager, who can provide you with daily updates and answer any questions you may have. This person is your direct pipeline to the very soul of your project and can keep you informed of all the project management details such as payment schedules, plans, progress reports, permits, and timelines.

Hiring a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor should be a non-negotiable requirement for anyone looking to undertake any construction project. You’ll be assured that you have a professional and experienced contractor who is accountable for their work and who will protect your interests, your money, and your property. It would be unfair to think that the benefits of hiring such a contractor come at a higher price; instead, all the mentioned liabilities signify an experienced and trustworthy contractor, committed to giving you your money’s worth at the end of the project. Remember, a safe and the quality construction project lay in the hiring of the right general contractor. So always prioritize hiring a contractor with the three fundamental credentials- licensed, bonded, and insured.

The post Why You Should Only Hire Licensed, Bonded and Insured General Contractors appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

Home renovation projects can be a daunting task, and finding the right general contractor can be even more challenging. Hiring a general contractor is an important decision that requires some level of scrutiny. Unfortunately, many people overlook one of the most important factors when hiring a contractor – whether they are insured or not. With that said, in this post, we’ve gathered nine serious problems you will face if you hire an uninsured general contractor. Keep reading to learn more.

1. You May Be Legally Liable if a Worker is Injured: As an employer, general contractors are supposed to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect employees and homeowners in case of an injury while on the job. But if your general contractor is not insured and one of his workers gets injured on your property, you could be held responsible for the worker’s medical bills, loss of income, and other costs.

2. You May Be Liable for Property Damage: Home renovation may require the use of heavy equipment that can cause property damage. If your general contractor isn’t covered by insurance, and they damage your neighbor’s property or cause damage to your own, you may be stuck with the bill.

3. You Have No Protection in Case of Substandard Work: Uninsured general contractors may not have proper licenses or certifications that ensure quality work. If they perform unsatisfactory work, and you have no legal protection, it could mean shoddy craftsmanship, financial loss, and the end of your home improvement dreams.

4. You Won’t Be Protected Against Liability for Defective or Inferior Materials: If a contractor causes damage to your home during a remodel, or an installed product or material defects against you, you might not have the legal protection necessary to recover damages if the contractor is uninsured.

5. Potential for Fraud: An uninsured general contractor may put your home renovation project in jeopardy through deceit and fraudulent activities. The lack of insurance leaves you open to the possibility of encountering fraudulent and shoddy contractors who are interested in ripping you off.

6. No Assurance of Completion: If the general contractor you hired is uninsured and something unforeseen happens that causes the job to stop midway (for example, a death in the family), you have nowhere to turn. Everything they have done up to that point will be lost, and you’ll have to start all over with a new provider.

7. Risk of Delays: Hiring a general contractor that is not insured may cause delays in your home renovation project. This is because most public and private buildings require contractors to be insured, and without this basic requirement, your contractor may not meet the stringent requirements set by your local authority.

8. Limited Access to Financing: Banks and credit unions will hesitate to provide financing to contractors that lack insurance coverage, even if they have a good track record. Thus, if you choose a contractor without insurance, it may be difficult to find financing options.

9. Limited Warranty Coverage: Most contractors offer warranty protection, but if the contractor is uninsured, they may limit the length or extent of their warranties, leaving you with little to no protection in the event that something goes wrong with their work.

There you have it, nine compelling reasons why it’s important to ensure your general contractor is insured. In conclusion, remember that it’s key to verify whether your contractor is insured or not before hiring. Doing so can help you avoid unnecessary stress and financial loss. At Landau Real Estate we are licensed, bonded and insured. Our five star Google rating speaks to the quality and thoroughness of our work.

The post The Risks of Hiring an Uninsured General Contractor appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

Hiring a general contractor is one of the most crucial decisions you will ever make when building or renovating your home. A general contractor’s job is to oversee and manage the entire construction project and ensure it is completed successfully. However, not all general contractors are the same, and while some will deliver great results, others may cut corners and put your investment at risk. Non competitve pricing is a major red flag when hiring a contractor. If a general contractor cuts the price of a job drastically compared to competition, you can be assured that there are corners being cut. In this blog post, we will explore 11 corners bad general contractors cut.

1. Skimping on Materials

One of the ways that bad general contractors cut corners is by using sub-par materials that do not meet industry standards. Why? They want to save money. While this may lower the initial cost of your project, poor quality materials are susceptible to wear and tear, which means repairs and replacements will cost you more in the long run.

2. Not Pulling Permits

Permits are essential legal requirements that ensure your construction project meets the local building codes and safety standards. However, bad general contractors may skip this process to save time and money. Not pulling permits can result in hefty fines and even legal sanctions.

3. Lack of Communication

Effective communication between the general contractor and the client is critical for a successful project. Unfortunately, some bad general contractors do not prioritize communication, leading to misunderstandings, delays, and costly errors.

4. Not Obtaining Insurance

The general contractor should have insurance coverage to protect your property from damage or accidents that may occur during the construction process. However, bad contractors may not have adequate insurance coverage, leaving you liable for any injuries or property damage that may occur due to their negligence.

5. Overpromising and Underdelivering

Some bad general contractors may promise to deliver exceptional results and then fail to live up to their end of the bargain. They may be great at pitching their services but lack the skills and experience necessary to execute the project.

6. Hiring Inexperienced Workers

General contractors are responsible for hiring and supervising subcontractors. Unfortunately, bad contractors may choose to hire inexperienced or unskilled workers to save money. This can lead to poor quality work and costly mistakes.

7. Ignoring Change Orders

Change orders refer to any changes that occur during the construction project, which are initiated by the client or general contractor. Good general contractors will inform their clients about any changes and discuss the options available. However, bad contractors may ignore change orders or do them without consulting the client, leading to costly disputes.

8. Not Doing Proper Inspections

Good general contractors will do thorough inspections during the construction project to ensure your property is in good condition. However, bad contractors may skip inspections to save time and money, which can result in costly repairs if issues are not identified early.

9. Skipping the Punch List

The punch list is a list of work that needs to be completed before the project is considered done. The client and the general contractor must agree on the punch list before the project’s completion. Some bad general contractors may skip the punch list, leaving important work undone or poorly completed.

10. Using Inferior Equipment

General contractors should have the necessary equipment to complete your project efficiently and safely. However, some bad contractors may use inferior equipment that poses a safety risk to their workers or fails to deliver quality workmanship.

11. Not Offering a Warranty

Good general contractors stand behind their work and offer a warranty to their clients. The warranty guarantees that the work completed meets the industry standards and that any issues arising from the construction work will be addressed promptly. Unfortunately, bad contractors may not offer a warranty, which means you will have to pay for repairs if anything goes wrong.

Hiring a bad general contractor can lead to a disastrous construction project, which can be costly to fix. Therefore, it is crucial to take your time to vet a general contractor before hiring them. Make sure to ask for referrals and check out their online reviews. Remember, transparency and effective communication are essential components of a successful construction project.

The post 11 Corners Bad General Contractors Cut appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

Choosing the right contractor to handle your commercial projects can be a daunting task. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know who to trust. In order to ensure that your project is in good hands, it’s important to look for certain signs that indicate a contractor is reliable and capable of delivering quality work. In this post, we’ll discuss 12 signs of a good commercial contractor.

1. Proper Licensing and Insurance: A reliable contractor should have the necessary licenses and insurance to operate in your state. This includes liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and any other required licenses or certifications.

2. Strong References: A contractor with a track record of successful projects and satisfied clients is a good sign that they can deliver the results you’re looking for. Ask for references and check for reviews and testimonials from previous clients.

3. Clear Communication: Communication is key in any construction project. A good contractor should be responsive and easy to communicate with throughout the project, keeping you informed and answering any questions you may have.

4. Quality Materials and Workmanship: A reliable contractor should use high-quality materials and deliver work that meets or exceeds industry standards. Ask about the materials and construction methods they’ll be using for your project.

5. Attention to Detail: A good contractor should be detail-oriented and care about the small things that make a big difference. This can include things like clean job sites, proper disposal of waste materials, and ensuring that all work meets code requirements.

6. Transparency in Pricing: A trustworthy contractor should be transparent about their pricing and provide detailed estimates that include all costs associated with your project.

7. Ability to Work within Budget: A reliable contractor should be able to work within your budget and provide solutions to any budgetary constraints you may have.

8. Flexibility and Adaptability: Construction projects can be unpredictable, and a good contractor should be flexible and able to adapt to changes as needed.

9. Proper Project Management: A reliable contractor should have an organized project management system in place to ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget.

10. Respect for Safety and Regulations: A good contractor should prioritize safety on the job site and adhere to all local regulations and codes.

11. Dedication to Client Satisfaction: A reliable contractor should be dedicated to client satisfaction and willing to go above and beyond to ensure that every client is happy with their work.

12. Long-Term Relationships: A sign of a good contractor is their ability to build long-term relationships with clients and maintain a strong reputation in the industry.

Choosing the right contractor for your commercial project is crucial to its success. By looking for these 12 signs of a good contractor, you can find a reliable and trustworthy partner for your construction needs. Remember to check for proper licensing and insurance, strong references, clear communication, quality materials and workmanship, attention to detail, transparency in pricing, ability to work within budget, flexibility and adaptability, proper project management, respect for safety and regulations, dedication to client satisfaction, and a commitment to building long-term relationships. By finding a contractor that meets these criteria, you can ensure that your project is in good hands from start to finish.

The post 12 Signs of a Good Commercial Contractor appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

1. Professionalism: A good general contractor will possess a high degree of professional skills and experience. They should be well-versed in the construction process and have the necessary certifications to ensure that all work is completed safely and to code. Look for general contractors who are members of certified trade organizations, such as the American Society of Professional Estimators or the National Association of Home Builders.

2. Communication: A general contractor should also have excellent communication skills, both in person and over the phone or email. This includes being able to clearly explain complex concepts in a way that can be understood by clients without any prior knowledge of home improvement projects. Furthermore, they should be punctual when responding to your questions or requests, so you know that your project is always in good hands.

3. Reliability: When it comes to home renovations or remodeling, timing is key. That’s why you need a general contractor who is reliable and trustworthy enough to stick to their schedule and deliver results on time — no excuses! If a general contractor has a tendency to miss deadlines or go over budget, then it’s best to look for someone else instead.

4. Flexibility: As with any home improvement project, chances are there will be unexpected problems along the way — from changing design ideas mid-project to dealing with unanticipated structural issues once demolition begins. That’s why you want a general contractor who is flexible enough to handle these types of surprises without having things grind to a halt due to lack of preparation or inability to think outside the box when needed.

5. References: A general contractor with nothing but positive customer references is definitely someone worth considering for your home improvement project! Take some time to read reviews and get quotes from past clients on how satisfied they were with their general contractor’s workmanship and overall professionalism during their project; this can give you some valuable insight into what kind of service you can expect if you hire them too!

6. Organization: Any good general contractor must have excellent organizational skills in order for a home renovation or remodeling project run as smoothly as possible from start to finish — which means ensuring that everything from materials delivery dates and subcontractor schedules are all taken into account ahead of time so there aren’t any inconvenient delays during construction later on down the line!

7. Upfront Pricing: The last thing you want with any home improvement project is unexpected financial surprises after it’s completed — which is why it’s important that your general contractor provides accurate up-front cost estimates before beginning construction so that there aren’t any hidden fees down the road! This kind of transparency shows that they’re confident enough in their abilities as professionals not only provide quality services but also do so at an affordable rate too!

Finding a general contractor who meets all the criteria mentioned above can be challenging, but it’s worth taking your time to find someone you trust and are confident in. A good general contractor should have professionalism, excellent communication skills, reliability, flexibility, positive customer references, organization and upfront pricing so that your home renovations or remodeling project runs as smoothly as possible from start to finish. With these seven signs of a quality general contractor in mind you’ll be sure to find one that is best suited for your needs.

The post 7 Signs of a Good General Contractor appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

Roof

The winter, and the snow it brings, can cause heavy pressure build up on your roof. As spring rain begins to arrive, it will surely find the cracks. Cross wind rain will challenge your roof’s infrastructure. Get your roof inspected today before it causes damage to your insulation, drywall, electrical and flooring. 

Siding

Whether you have aluminum siding that needs to be replaced, or cedar plank siding that may be damaged, Landau Real Estate can replace your siding to make sure rain and other elements don’t infiltrate your home. An investment that will help to protect your home, yet maintain energy cost. Siding comes with a great warranty and Landau Real Estate provides the best in customer service. 

Concrete

Did you miss your window to do concrete work before the cold weather hit? If you did, chances are you are facing a much bigger problem now. We can replace any concrete that may be cracking due to age, wear and weather corrosion. With many concrete replacement jobs all over Chicago, Landau Real Estate is here for you. 

Windows

Rainy days are nothing to mess with if you have unreliable and dated windows. By replacing windows you will also see a major reduction in expense when it comes to your utility bill. Windows also provide a sizable improvement to your home’s ROI. 

A/C 

There isn’t anything crazier than Chicago weather. Before you know it we will need to kick on that old A/C unit. It is important to prep your air conditioning system so that it is ready to rock and roll when the dog days of summer roll around. 

Chimney 

When rodents and other animals need to seek cover, unfortunately they may find it in your chimney. Let Landau Real Estate come in and make sure it is not only rodent free but cleaned and regulated. 

Foundation 

The foundation may be the most important element to your property. Tasked with supporting your home, a crack in the foundation can cause enormous problems. We can handle all foundation repairs to make sure they don’t get worse. 

Masonry

As the years go by, masonry is sometimes the most neglected portion of a home’s exterior.  While it may take awhile for brick and stone to deteriorate, once it starts it’s a rapid descent.  Masonry is very costly to replace and repair.  General and consistent inspection and upkeep can help you pay a little upfront, rather than thousands at once.  Masonry is not only aesthetically unpleasant when it fails, but is also very hazardous.  Let Landau Real Estate repair and maintain your brick/masonry to keep your property safe and beautiful.

Whatever your home improvement needs may be, Landau Real Estate is here for you. Experts in residential and commercial general contracting will have your home prepared for Spring. Book your appointment today!

The post Homeowners Spring Checklist appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

Furnace

Arguably the most important unit in your home when the winter hits is your furnace. Have you been actively changing the furnace filter? Any signs that it may be ready to give out? We are here to help. Most heating and air systems typically last 12 to 15 years. It’s much better to find a furnace problem in the warmer temperatures of the fall than it is to find your furnace doesn’t work on a sub zero day. 

Outside Exterior

Whether you have siding, brick or another outside exterior, it is imperative to make sure that it is sealed and ready to handle the stresses of the winter. There are a variety of sealant solutions that can be applied to masonry work. Siding can be fixed and patched to prevent any unnecessary moisture as well. Preventing moisture from entering your home will prevent drywall damage as well as insulation damage. 

Concrete 

If your concrete is cracking and damage is already visible, the salt that melts the snow will not do any favors.  Landau Real Estate can  place control joints in your concrete to try to ensure cracking is limited. Take the time to inspect your concrete and fill in any cracks before you apply sealer so that water cannot get in and freeze over the winter. This should ensure your expensive concrete work lasts a very long time.

Gutters

Your gutters will be stressed over the winter months. With heavy snow and rain, the cleaning of your gutters is important. Make sure your gutters are completely clean of the fall leaves as well as any other things that can fall in during the windy fall months. If you have gutters that are loose or damaged you will want to make sure those are corrected before winter arrives.

Doors & Windows

Are you feeling a draft come in through your windows and doors now? If you are, it will only get worse. Check your doors and windows closely for gaps and areas that may cause a draft. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up, or consider replacing the windows or doors if the problem is severe enough.

Drainage
Drainage is extremely important during winter. Check to see if the soil around your foundation hasn’t settled, which allows water to pool at your foundation. Also make sure to  check your rain gutter downspouts. Make sure water is getting moved away from the home. Add downspout extenders if necessary. Saturated soil around a foundation can create real problems as it freezes and thaws throughout the winter months.

As we exit fall and enter winter, these items are an absolute must to address. Landau Real Estate is equipped with all the capabilities to solve any of these problems. If you are concerned with your home’s condition to handle a cold Chicago winter, contact us for assistance in getting your home prepared. 

The post Tips to Prepare Your Home For Winter appeared first on Landau Real Estate.

Desperate.

If a general contractor is coming across as desperate or seems to be overpromising the expectations of the job, it is a bad sign. The desperation is an early sign that corners may be cut and they are more than likely not qualified. 

Unprofessional Attire. 

The general contracting process is very transformative and is a visually appealing process. If your prospective contractor shows up in unprofessional attire it is not a good indication of the ultimate outcome of the job. You should look elsewhere. 

Unlicensed. 

If you ask your prospective contractor to see their credentials and permits and they are unwilling to, it most likely means they are unlicensed. Not only is this extremely unprofessional but it is possibly a huge liability for you to allow them in your home to do work. Move on and keep searching for a reputable general contractor. 

Large Deposit Requested

If your general contractor is asking for a large sum of money upfront, that is a huge red flag! The industry trend is 33 percent down. Any more than that and you should be very cautious about moving forward. 

No References.

When you ask the general contractor you are about to hire for a list of references and they decline to give them to you, walk away. This may be the biggest red flag of all. Either they are inexperienced and don’t have any completed jobs or they are doing poor quality work and are afraid to give them to you. Either way, don’t go with a contractor that doesn’t have verifiable references. 

The post 5 Warning Signs of a Bad General Contractor appeared first on Landau Real Estate.