resource center for smaller assised living facilities
sinkAssisted Living Facilities: Finding A Contractor for a Small Job
 
A key part of operating an assisted living facility is to make sure that the physical plant is well maintained. Yet managers and owners of smaller assisted living facilities may find it difficult to locate a contractor willing to take on some of the smaller maintenance and construction jobs. How to check on contractor licenses or file complaints.

A useful resource for finding a local contractor for major as well as smaller contracting jobs - A national company called ServiceMagic®, Inc., can match you with local contractors who have been screened and want to work on the job that you describe. A picture of how it works.
 
The matching service is free to consumers. Contractors are screened by the Service Magic and pay a fee to be registered. Past customers are encouraged to rate their experiences and you have access to the ratings of those who bid on your project. The system is particularly useful for smaller projects where it may be hard to attract contractors. The three-step process is straightforward. You select from over 30 categories such as carpentry, tiles, drywall, driveways, etc. You are prompted by an on-line questionnaire about what you need. Your request is sent out and interested contractors contact you, often within hours. You then make your own arrangements. More details on the process.

There are three entry points:
  • Service Magic - Service Magic is a free, no obligation service that matches homeowners to home improvement contractors from their network of prescreened professionals for all areas concerning home improvement.
  • ImproveNet - ImproveNet has been matching homeowners with contractors for home improvement, remodeling, maintenance and repairs. Improvenet is a free service with no obligation, and is powered by a nationwide, screened network of home improvement contractors.
  • 1-800 Contractor - Get a directory of screened home improvement contractors in your area. All home improvement contractors are screened and customer-rated for your peace of mind.
Maryland Licensing of Contractors - The Maryland Department Labor, Licensing and Regulation, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing regulates a variety of professionals in the state. The agency website allows you to check to see if a specific contractor is licensed and to file a complaint about a contractor whose work is unsatisfactory.
Source: Legal Aid Bureau’s Maryland Legal Assistance Network, in partnership with the Senior Legal Helpline, and the Assisted Living Project  the under a grant from the Maryland Department on Aging  to the Legal Aid Bureau   

Date last reviewed (no legal content): 10/15//07 (MLAN/DL/AC)
Is this legal advice? This site offers legal information, not legal advice.  We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information and to clearly explain your options.  However we do not provide legal advice - the application of the law to your individual circumstances. For legal advice, you should consult an attorney.  See our section on Finding Legal Help.

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