If you are in the market for a new home, you should shop for your builder as carefully as you would shop for your home. You will want to know that you are buying a good-quality home form a reputable builder.
The State of Louisiana requires a residential contractor to be licensed if he is building a home for another valued at $50,000 or more in a permitting area. In addition, he must show proof of workers compensation insurance for those employed on the job and general liability.
Buying a new home is one of the biggest and most important purchases one makes in a lifetime. By doing your homework, you will be able to shop for a home with a sense of confidence and the knowledge that will help you make the right decision.
Doing It Yourself?
As a home owner, if you take out a construction permit:
You are, in fact, doing the work yourself.
You become responsible for any accident or injury to any person on or around your property.
Acting as your own general contractor, you are subject to being held responsible for any damage that may result from this construction.
Your homeowner's insurance may not cover expense for these damages or injuries.
You will become liable to pay for workman's medical expenses and/or disabilities resulting from accidents or injuries sustained while employed by you.
Under current Louisiana law, you are responsible for anyone hurt while working on or around the construction site.
