Hiring a General Contractor to Incorporate Universal Design in your Modular Home

Posted by Legendary Homes on October 17, 2014 in General Contractor with No Comments Yet

If you have decided to install the Universal Design features to your modular home, hire a reputable general contractor. A general contractor will take charge of the project, ordering materials, getting necessary building permits, and hiring subcontractors or workers as needed. Subcontractors can be hired to do part of the work, but in this case, you or a family member will become the general contractor with all the responsibility of ordering materials and scheduling work.

Get Referrals from Previous Clients

When hiring a general contractor, it is better to get recommendations from friends or neighbors who have had similar project as yours. To have a satisfactory experience with a contractor, hire one with a good reputation and spell out, in writing, all the parts of the contract. It is a good idea to talk with and get estimates from more than one contractor or firm. Get referrals from friends or neighbors. Modular home improvement stores often have installation services available or have a list of recommended installers.

Check the License or Certification of the General Contractor

It is always a wise move to hire a licensed and bonded general contractor. This is to ensure that all money and effort is placed into worth. Check with your local housing department regarding the modular home general contractor’s reliability and performance record.

Discuss the Contract or Features of the Modular Home First

Ask the general contractor for references and check the references before signing a contract. Get everything in writing. Only sign a contract after thoroughly reading it and be sure that you are comfortable with the language. You have the right to modify the contract wording to meet your expectations before you sign it. The general contractor must then initial changes for the contract to be binding.

Write down features you would like before signing a contract or beginning construction. Have the general contractor figure the cost of these features into his or her price to complete the project to your specifications.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: General Contractor

Explaining the Roles and Responsibilities of General Contractor and Subcontractor in Modular Home Construction

Posted by Legendary Homes on October 15, 2014 in General Contractor with No Comments Yet

When dealing with modular home construction, you enter the realm of general contractor and subcontractor. But what’s the difference between the roles and responsibilities of a general contractor and subcontractor?

General Contractor versus Subcontractor

General contractor is someone who has a contract directly with the owner of the property of a project, or with someone “knowingly permitted” by the owner to improve the project. He is the “big picture” thinker. They work with you through the entire project, from the idea phase to the finished product. General contractors are more like managers and coordinators, but many have a crew of their own and perform some of the subcontract tasks.

By contrast, a subcontractor comes and goes. Subcontractor is someone hired by the general contractor, rather than the owner, or the owner’s agent. They specialize in certain areas of the construction process, like large equipment operation, concrete formulation, plumbing, electricity and carpentry. They enter a project to do a particular task and leave when that task is finished. The subcontractors are responsible for specific trades, most are the minor program from the overall project. Thus, the agreement to do the work is never made directly between the subcontractor and the owner.

Fees of General Contractor versus Subcontractor

By law, the subcontractor will be paid only if the general contractor is first paid by the owner, whereas under a “pay-when-paid” provision, the subcontractor will be paid when the contractor is paid by the owner. A pay-if-paid provision creates a condition precedent to the contractor’s duty to pay its subcontractor and the risk of an owner’s non-payment is shared by the contractor and the subcontractor. With a pay-when-paid clause, the general contractor has a duty to pay the subcontractor whether or not the contractor receives payment from the owner, and payment will be due the subcontractor within a reasonable time after the owner should have paid the contractor.

Employees of General Contractor versus Subcontractor

If you decide to hire a general contractor, he or she may have a permanent staff of employees. In this case, you might have few, if any, subcontractors involved in your project. Hiring employees versus subcontractors is an economic decision. The employer — in this case, the general contractor — must pay salaries and purchase worker’s compensation insurance for employees.

Since subcontractors are independent business people, general contractors don’t have to pay to insure them or pay employment taxes on them. Hiring subcontractors for overflow work or to perform tasks that call for expertise that isn’t needed on a regular basis saves expenses for the general contractor and ultimately, for you.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: General Contractor

Start your Research and Hire a Great General Contractor for your Modular Home Today!

Posted by Legendary Homes on October 14, 2014 in General Contractor with No Comments Yet

Looking for a reputable general contractor can be daunting especially if you are a first time home buyer. To alleviate your concerns, here some tips on hiring a general contractor for your modular home;

Ask for Referrals When searching for a Reputable General Contractor

If you live in an area that has plenty of resources, ask around at your local home improvement store or lumber yard for contractors they have seen buying quality products. Be mindful of contractors that few people have heard of, or haven’t seen where they purchase their building materials. Poor quality building materials can be the beginning of an awful modular home construction.

Ask Questions over the Phone First

Before having a general contractor come out to your home, ask them interview questions by phone. Questions should include: *What other projects have they done that are similar in size and complexity as your project? *What are their payment requirements? (Avoid contractors who only accept cash, or require you to write a check directly to them instead of the business) *Ask if their license is current and when it expires *Where is their office located.

Meet the General Contractor in Person

Once you feel comfortable over the phone, it is time to meet the general contractor at your home. Don’t ignore your gut feeling when talking with a general contractor. When you ask them questions, the contractor should be able to answer concisely and not seem hesitant. Ask them in person again for projects that you can go see, or ask for contact information of previous clients and projects.

Get at least 3-4 bids on your Modular Home project

Each general contractor should ask for floor plans of your home, and get a list of your wants and needs from you. Have the contractor explain how they will begin, execute and finish the project from beginning to end. Ask each general contractor to divide their bids into categories for easy determination of what you are really paying for. Categories should include: labor, materials, profit and miscellaneous expenses.

Don’t choose the General Contractor with the Cheapest Price

Although tempting, don’t go with the lowest price general contractor. They could be the lowest because of low quality materials, or they are desperate and haven’t worked recently. Choose one that you feel comfortable with their personality, price, background, and methods. Put everything in writing and make a schedule of milestones in which to pay the contractor. Assure that your contractor gets a lien release which will protect you if they don’t pay their subcontractors and bills. Remember a quality contractor will not give you a “low ball” offer.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: General Contractor

General Contractor and Other Persons Involved in the Modular Home Construction

Posted by Legendary Homes on September 28, 2014 in General Contractor, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Two Story Modular Home with Front Porch

A general contractor is an individual who engages in the planning, developing and coordinating of activities which coincide with the modular home construction. The general contractor is the individual who oversees the construction and ensures that all necessary measures are taken to result in the completed finished product.

A general contractor will need to hire a number of sub contractors to complete the site work during the modular home construction. Some of the sub contractors you will need to hire include:

Subcontractors in Modular Home Construction

Engineers and Architects

The general contractor will need to hire a local engineer or architect to complete the modular home construction process. At times you will be required to hire an environmental engineer to insure your home’s excavation does not interfere with wetlands or neighboring building lots. Contact your local permit office for more information of you requirements for an engineer.

Excavator

You will need an excavator to dig your modular homes foundation, clear the building site, back fill the foundation and complete both rough and final grading. In addition, your excavator can remove or add soil to your building site as required to build your home.

Foundation Company

Your modular home will require a foundation, either a crawl space or full basement or pilings for your home. The foundation company could install block walls, poured walls, a wooden foundation, precast wall system or insulated concrete forms for your modular homes foundation.

Carpenters

After your modular home is set on the foundation, you will need carpenters to finish out the exterior trim, build porches, decks, garages and other on site construction elements. You will also need a carpenter to complete minor work inside the modular home. This includes positioning stairs, installing doors, adjusting windows and doors and more. Your modular home dealer will help you understand the required carpentry work for your new home.

Plumbers

During the modular home construction process, the sections are delivered with the plumbing stubbed through the first floor of the home. Homes with two stories will need to have plumbing connections completed in access panels in the modular homes ceiling or floors. Plumbers will also install waste lines for sewage and the modular homes water heating system.

Electricians

General contractors of modular home construction will need electricians after modular homes are set on the foundation because 95% of the electrical work is completed. The last five percent or so of electrical work will include wiring the panel box, connecting the main power source to the panel box and any interconnection between modules.

HVAC Contractor

Most modular homes come standard with electric baseboard heating. Unfortunately, most people doing the modular home construction desire to have forced air heating and cooling systems or hot water radiant heating systems. If you are opting for a forced air system for your modular home, your HVAC contractor will install the heating and cooling system and also any required duct work.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: Modular Home Construction

Responsibilities of a General Contractor in Building a Modular Home

Posted by Legendary Homes on September 26, 2014 in General Contractor, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

In the construction of a modular home, the primary responsibility of the general contractor is to oversee everything. He manages and organizes the project to provide a high quality abode. This individual has a job that entails hard work and thorough review of many processes which accompany the building of structures.

The list below represents the responsibilities of a general contractor before, during and after the modular home construction;

Reviews the Modular Home Floor Plan

The modular home general contractor is responsible for making the final floor reviews. This includes making sure all electrical fixtures, telephone jacks, television jacks and ceiling fixtures are included on the plan. A modular home floor plan review also will require making sure the windows; doors and walls are all correctly located. After the floor plan for the modular home has been approved, your home will be built to the plans you have reviewed.

Secures Modular Home Building Permits

Most municipalities throughout out the United States require a building permit when you build a modular home. With a modular you will be required to have at minimum a foundation permit set and a construction permit. Go to your local building code office for all of the permit requirements for modular home construction.

Ensure Financing is Properly Done

While your modular home is being built, it is the responsibility of the general contractor to report to the lending institution who has written the construction loan as per when draw items have been completed. After the bank inspector inspects the completion of construction tasks, the bank will reimburse the general contractor with a draw check to pay sub contractors.

Provides Skilled Laborers

An experience general contractor knows that having skilled laborers could bring lots of benefits for the construction. Skilled laborers ensures the modular home will be built as scheduled.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: Modular Home

Hiring a Subcontractor for Electrical and Plumbing System of Modular Homes

Posted by Legendary Homes on July 6, 2014 in General Contractor with No Comments Yet

There are a lot of considerations to take before hiring a subcontractor. They include the understanding on the installation process of the electrical and plumbing services, skills on how to install the wires and pipes appropriately and years of experience in providing quality work. The license of the subcontractor is also taken into account during this process.

Licensed of a of a Modular Home Subcontractor

A subcontractor must be licensed. It is customary to check if the plumber or the electrician is a licensed subcontractor. Doing this would prevent you from issues concerning faulty wires and pipes. You will be ensured that the work he did meets with the building codes.

In most cases and to ensure that you hire a licensed subcontractor, it is better to ask a code officer. He could lead you to the trusted subcontractor in your town.

Experience of a Modular Home Subcontractor

A modular home subcontractor who is subject to install your electrical or plumbing system must have three to five years of experience. These years of experience would give you the confidence that he already gained a noteworthy reputation in his field. Usually the longer the experience of a plumber of electrician, the better it is for the modular home owner for it shows that many have been hiring his services for years now.

Key Skills of a Modular Home Subcontractor

Good skills can be shown on a subcontractor’s customer services approach. If the subcontractor pulled off an excellent customer service by depicting his capabilities on how to accurately and safely install the electrical or plumbing system, then he maybe your guy.

At some point asked previous customers about the mechanical skills of the subcontractor you wish to hire. They will have an in- depth knowledge on how much can he deliver. They can also share insights on the knowledge and skills of the plumber or electrician about the tools and the plumbing and electrical systems.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: Modular Home Subcontractor

Frequently Asked Questions About Modular Home Plumbing Permit

Posted by Legendary Homes on July 1, 2014 in General Contractor, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

There will always be a number of questions to ask about the modular home plumbing permit. These questions will primarily lighten the confusion or curiosity of every home buyers about why there is a need to procure a permit even if plumbing system does not require a major construction.

A wise homeowner will always be in the know on everything about the construction of his modular home that even the process of how to get a modular home plumbing permit is not barred from his bucket list. He will definitely ask the general contractor about the requirements and what needs to be done to successfully get an approved permit. And among the most asked questions are as follows.

What is a modular home plumbing permit?

A permit grants the holder authorization to perform installation work for plumbing system. Permits are assigned a unique document number which is required when requesting inspections and approval of the work.

When is a modular home plumbing permit required?

A modular home plumbing permit is required when any plumbing work is being performed.

How much will a modular home plumbing permit cost?

Fees involve in modular home plumbing permit application are based on the value of the work performed. In Michigan, the application fee is $75. This fee does not include other fees concerning the inspection of other parts of the plumbing system.

Why are you required to plumbing permit your work with the Department of Consumer & Industry Services, Bureau of Commercial Services – Builders?

The purpose of the permit system is to ensure compliance with proper installation and safety standards. The Michigan State authorized a permit fee structure to cover the costs of inspections and administration.

Who should apply for a modular home plumbing permit in the Jackson, Michigan?

Licensed contractors, plumbers and homeowners performing plumbing work must be the person to apply for a modular home plumbing permit.

When should a homeowner purchase a plumbing permit?

Homeowners may purchase a modular home plumbing permit only when they themselves are doing plumbing work on their modular homes. Homeowner permits are not valid for work on commercial buildings.

How do I purchase a modular home plumbing permit?

The Department of Consumer & Industry Services, Bureau of Commercial Services – Builders offers online permitting to licensed plumbing contractors as well as homeowners performing work on their primary or secondary residences.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog

Topic: Modular Home Plumbing Permit

Steps in Applying for Modular Home Building Permit and Other Permits in Jackson, Michigan

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 30, 2014 in General Contractor, Jackson, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Plumbing Permit for Modular Home

Though it is the general contractor and subcontractor’s job to procure the modular home building permit and other permits such as the electrical and plumbing permits, the homeowner must be aware of the process. Knowledge of the building permit application process would imply that you are taking part in the construction process as an inspector. You should see to it that everything is done accordingly.

Prior to submitting the application for a modular home building permit, a general contractor gathers all the necessary requirements which include the detailed plans of the modular home construction and the fees needed. The plan presents the dimension, floor plan, materials to be use and the warranty of the house. Fee for the building permit depends in each county or town. But in Jackson, Michigan it could reach up to $1,660.

Complete the Modular Home Building Permit Application Form

After gathering the required documents and fees, the general contractor will have to fill up the modular home building permit application form. The information given should coincide with the documents you carry. Any incorrect data given could barred the success of the building permit application.

Attach a Completed Residential Development Order Form

The Residential Development Order form is taken from the Jackson County Community Center and a fee of $25 must be paid. It must be attached with the recorded land deed of your property. This step in the application of modular home building permit is not required if your home is to be erected within the city limits, instead you are to have the development order from the city office.

Finish a 911 Addressing Form

A 911 addressing form must be completed along with the two forms and must be submitted to the Building Department in Jackson, Michigan. For more details about this form, you must inquire to the Building Department.

Other Permits for Modular Home

Permits for septic tank, HVAC system, and electrical system must be taken by subcontractors working to complete your modular home. In Jackson, they must apply for a permit to build or have a septic tank from the Jackson County Health Department Division of Environmental Health. The permit for a new septic tank costs for $350 and $85 for an existing septic tank.

Secure Two Sets of Approved Plans

The general contractor is then required to secure two sets of Department of Community Affairs approved plans. These plans should show the plans for the foundation, floor plan, and wind load requirements to construct a modular home.

A potential home owner must remember that only a licensed general contractor and subcontractor are allowed to apply and procure the necessary permits. That is why it is compulsory to ensure that you hire a licensed and trustworthy contractor for your modular home.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Building Permit

Why Champion Homes is your Modular Home Manufacturer

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 4, 2014 in General Contractor, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

A modular home manufacturer is the person tasked to produce modules that would make a stunning abode once assembled securely. He is the person who is mostly tasked to monitor everything within the factory. A home buyer usually does not deal with the manufacturer directly.

The growing demand of home buyers leads to the seeking of an excellent modular home manufacturer who could provide the best modular home there is. The search can be overwhelming for first time home buyers. If they are eager to know which among an array of manufacturers is a great fit for them, they could check the Champion Homes. Branded as one of the leading modular home manufacturers in Michigan, Champion Homes dedicates itself in providing modular homes in the northern part of the United States. Its services are focused on the delivery of superior quality and efficiency.

Modular Home in Michigan

Modular Home Manufacturer Provides a Variety of Modular Solutions

Every modular home manufacturer have different and numerous solutions when it comes to building a quality built modular home. This is why Champion Homes is considered as by most to be an excellent manufacturer of modular homes. The company is among those who have been incorporating old and new strategies to ensure that quality and efficiency is always reached by the homes they created. They guaranteed that each modular home they build is subject to have a couple of modular construction solutions. They also see to it that each of their customers will have the best building experience possible.

Champion Homes is regarded by their customers and subcontractors as the best in providing modular homes that they provided a variety of floor plans and designs. These modular floor plans are drawn to be suitable in each of the regions in America. Home buyers in Michigan are also granted the benefits to enjoy the floor plans and designs of Champion Homes.

Modular Home Manufacturer Implements Controlled and Quality Modular Home Construction

Another reason why Champion Homes is the right modular home manufacturer is attributed to the process on how their workers are creating the modules and completes the home. The monitoring and controlling techniques executed in each phase of the building process are implemented accordingly to review each fine details of the modular home. Materials and products used in every modular home are ensured to meet the quality mandated by the building code.

Champion Homes also conforms with the Green Building Standard that provides increased energy efficiency and quality for the modular homes. Compliance to lower the enviromental impact of modular homes is followed by the company through the properly done control and monitoring during the construction process. This then become the reason why materials are utilized properly leading to lesser wastes at the end of the day.

Modular Home Manufacturer Has Skilled Workforce

Having a team of skilled employees and builders is maybe the important reason why Champion Homes is the best in modular home manufacturing. They have a team of workers that are doing each job in the most excellent way. Their trained workers have been proven to provide efficient and high value productivity that makes their customers happier with the building experience. They also have home builders that have the skill set expected by the home buyers. They have a team set to supercharge the quality of every modular home they create.

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Topic: Modular Home Manufacturer

Top Ranked Modular Home Manufacturers in Jackson, Michigan

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 4, 2014 in General Contractor, Modular Home Builder, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Modular home manufacturers are just lurking around in Michigan but one of the best manufacturers in Jackson, Michigan is the Redman Homes. The company have been producing quality built modular homes for years now. It serves with clients eager to own a home through affordable housing. Redman Homes is one of the manufacturers who provide many services and advantages to its customers. These services are the key factors why working with them is one of wise decision you could make.

Modular Home Model suitable for Jackson, Michigan

Modular Home Manufacturers: Numerous Floor Plans and Design

Just like any other modular home manufacturers, Redman Homes have different modular floor plans and design. Home buyers can choose between the single story, two story, and multi box modular home design. Home buyers also privileged to modify the exterior and interior features of whatever floor plan they have chosen. With the online design tool provided by Redman Homes, each home buyer can make their own design even before meeting the home dealer or any subcontractor in Jackson, Michigan. They can integrate the design they prefer for the Masters bedroom, kitchen or the bathroom. They can also have a basement for their modular homes.

Modular Home Manufacturers: Affordable Modular Home Designs

The nature of building a modular home is rooted from affordability and efficiency. Manufacturers of modular homes in Jackson have been making cost efficient modular homes for their customers. Redman Homes is also one of the manufacturers that give credit to the budget of each home buyer. If the buyer cannot pay in cash, the company helps in the application of modular home loan to their trusted modular financing lenders. Redman Homes is among those modular home manufacturers who build less expensive modular homes because they see to it that each modules are made from natural and inexpensive materials. They also hire few but trained workmen to perform every tasks in the construction process. Branded as one of the best, the company has lesser construction wastes and has not allowed costly delays interfere with there work in the entire process.

Modular Home Manufacturers: High Quality Modular Homes

Quality is always the end result of every building process. That is why top ranked modular home manufacturers like Redman Homes have been working hard to ensure that each modules they build to erect a modular is of great value. The method or solutions applied in each phase of the construction process are guaranteed to meet or exceed the building codes set by the regional or state housing law. Usage of high quality materials is one of the key factors of Redman Homes in having a superior and durable performance modular home.

If you find this post helpful, please subscribe to our blog. You can get a free copy of the modular home price sheets from us as well.

Topic: Modular Home Manufacturers

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Legendary Homes Inc
10197 S Meridian Rd US 127
Clarklake, Mi 49234
(517)206-2435
http://LegendaryHomesInc.com
Todd_Rutledge@LegendaryHomesInc.com

Located in Jackson County Michigan