Starting Construction?

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Welcome

As a general contractor, I am often asked, "How do I find good contractors?" and "How do I avoid cost overruns?" These are important questions because construction is expensive when it is done right. When things go wrong, it can be financially devastating. 

To help ensure that your projects are done correctly, on time, and on budget, you need to be a knowledgeable participant who understands the “business” of construction.On this website, you will learn how to:

Develop a concise and inclusive Scope of Work that details what, exactly, the contractor will do

Research the contractor’s license and insurance as well as his or her background

Recognize proposals and contracts that are one-sided and unfair

In addition, you will learn about the permitting and inspection process and how it benefits you. Pitfalls such as liens, jobsite injuries, and other costly events are explained, as are the methods to avoid them. 


A projects’ success is contingent on hiring a tiptop team of professionals who are experts in their fields. And fortunately, there are many competent contractors. But there are also scam artists who want to make a fast buck-especially after a natural disaster when people are desperate. To avoid “the con in construction”, arm yourself with knowledge.If you need additional consulting or training, contact us here.

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Kia Ricchi is a Florida-licensed contractor.  Since earning her licensure in 1998, Kia has completed numerous residential and commercial projects including several for the State of Florida.

Kia is also the author of Avoiding the Con in Construction  and contributor to several national publications and news broadcasts.

AWARDS and other accomplishments:

Book awards (4):  Benjamin Franklin Best First Book award,  Indie Excellence award, The Independent Publisher's Living Well award. Library Journal's Best of

Corporate Awards (2) : 2013 Florida Governor's Hurricane Conference and the 2014 National Hurricane Conference "Outstanding Achievement Award.

Book endorsements: National Association of State Contractor Licensing Agencies, Building Officials Association of Florida, and several construction attorneys and licensed insurance agents.
Contributor to: NPR, Remodeling Magazine, FineHomebuilding, Inman News, TheStreet, WPTV and more.
Speaker, consultant, and CE provider to: National Hurricane Conf & Fla Gov Hurricane Conf, IFMA World Workplace, National Realtors Convention, Internation Food & Lodging Conf, etc.

"If you think professionals are expensive, try hiring an amateur.-”Red Adair 

 

 

 

Training System
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Contracting Confidential
 System

 

Click here to order 

Hiring a Contractor?

GET IT RIGHT
iCheck Contractors verifies Florida contractors' 

· Professional licensing
· Workers’ comp insurance
· Corporate standing

  Sample Page

CHECK YOUR CONTRACTOR HERE 

 

 

 

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Testimonials

Rose Anne Homola, Conference & Special Events Manager -Reed Exhibitions.
“As a leading events organizer, Reed Exhibitions must continually deliver informative and educational programs to our attendees. Kia Ricchi provides unique and interesting content in an engaging manner. Her program reviews have been exceptional.”

Allyson Peters, Executive Director  BOMA Orlando.
“Kia brings to your attention in a fun atmosphere all you need to know to make sure your contractors have been screened and are up to date of the most crucial elements.  Our members will use her education for many years”

Jan Stein, Coordinator Hillsborough County, Florida
“…Kia has excellent communication skills and patience in collaborating with the County’s project managers and staff. Her unique expertise as a license contractor is an added bonus….”

Mikel Hulon, Biological Administrator Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission
“…Following the completion of the project, it is my pleasure to say Centerline Productions, Inc performed all requested contract requirements and finished all details in an Excellent and Efficient manner….”

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