A home construction contract is used when any construction, repair or remodeling work is done to a home. The home construction contract must be signed and dated by both the contractor and the homeowner in order for it to be enforceable should a dispute arise. The home construction contract should include the following: the names of both the contractor and the homeowner, the address of the job, a start date and estimated completion date, contract price, payment method, description of the work to be performed, contractor warranties, a method for resolution of disputes and any additional terms and conditions. Before entering into a home construction contract: (1) verify the contractor’s credentials by checking with the state to make sure the contractor is licensed and that no complaints have been filed against the contractor; (2) ask for references and check them; and (3) never give any large upfront deposits, especially cash. The majority of contractors are legitimate and honest. However, it is easy for scam artists and crooks to disguise themselves as legitimate contractors and take money for work that they never start or complete, or use substandard materials and supplies.