Department of Housing and Urban Development
Information on a range of home improvement topics, but particularly on federal grants and loans for property rehabilitation and repair.
Consumer Protection
Federal Trade Commission
The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, click the link above, or call toll-free,1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261
Better Business Bureau - Main Website
Professional Associations
National Association of the Remodelling Industry
Information on NARI's prfessional standards for contractors, including it's certification program for the following six designations: Certified Remodeler (CR), Certified Remodeler Specialist (CRS), Certified Remodeler Associate (CRA), Certified Kitchen & Bath Remodeler (CKBR), Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC), and Certified Remodeling Carpenter (CRC).
Energy efficiency
Energy Star
Information on the Energy Star rating system for energy savings on both appliances and home building. Has a directory to help find contractors that specialize in energy-efficient building.
General Contractors
Castle Building
For further in-depth discussion of what to look for in a renovation contractor, an exhaustive article by Marty Schirber of Castle Building & Remodeling, Inc. called Choosing a Contractor: 25 Factors is available at this link. Click on “Education Center.”
Personal Finance
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