All the remodelers you meet on the Remodelers Showcase are members of Housing First Minnesota. That means they adhere to a code of ethics, are educated, and are committed to the industry.

Ethical

Housing First Minnesota remodeler members are required to sign and agree to abide by a strict code of business ethics and agree to mediation, which Housing First Minnesota will provide should a dispute arise. Members are required to show proof that their Minnesota contractor license is current and that they have completed a minimum of three major, successful remodeling projects before being allowed to participate in any Remodelers Showcase tour.

Educated

Housing First Minnesota provides important educational opportunities to its members, both to maintain their state licensing and to help improve their day-to-day business. These courses help ensure remodelers are current on regulations, building codes, new technologies, and the latest products.

Committed to the Industry

Remodelers who make the effort to join and participate in an organization like Housing First Minnesota show they are committed to the remodeling industry and remaining an active part of it. That’s not something you should take lightly.

So, how do you tell if a remodeler is a professional?

1. Make sure the remodeler you hire has a Minnesota contractor license. Contractor license oversight is through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Use their quick license lookup tool to confirm the company you’re interviewing is licensed and has no complaints against them.
2. A professional remodeler will be transparent with costs and payments. Whether they operate on a cost-plus basis or another method, they’ll explain how much they earn for their services.
3. Professional remodelers always provide written contracts.
   They don’t want to do any work without one, and neither should you.
4. Your municipality requires permits for most work done on your home.
   A professional remodeler will make sure your project is permitted and that the permit is displayed on site.
5. Check that they are a member of a professional organization like Housing First Minnesota.
   When a company makes the effort to be a part of an industry association, they have access to education and connections that let them keep up with the latest trends, codes, and products. They are also required to sign an ethics agreement upon joining.