How to avoid headaches when renovating

Before embarking on a home project, check out your contractor thoroughly. "This person might be part of your life for several weeks or months," says Angie Hicks, the Indianapolis-based founder of Angie's List, which collects consumer ratings on service providers. Hicks and other experts recommend these steps. (For more details, go to mass.gov/oca and click on "Home Improvement Contractor Law.")

1. Get three estimates in writing.

2. Ask the Better Business Bureau (boston.bbb.org, 508-652-4800) if any complaints have been filed against the contractor.

3. Check if the contractor has been reviewed by a service such as Homestars (homestars.com, 416-488-0312), Service Magic (servicemagic.com, 866-384-1080), or Angie's List (angieslist.com, 888-944-5478).

4. Ask for references, and check them.

5. Make sure the contractor is insured and, if applicable, licensed or registered with the state.

6. Get a detailed contract that spells out a work and payment schedule.