Glossary of Home Improvement Terms
Before you nail down your next home improvement project,
learn the lingo. These common terms and definitions may
help you avoid miscommunications with your contractor.
14 MANATEE-SARASOTA BIA Contractors’ Guide
Learn
the Lingo
Allowance
A specific dollar amount allocated by a contractor
for specified items in a contract for which brand,
model number, color, size or other detail is not
yet known.
Bid
A proposal to work for a certain amount of money,
based on plans and specifications for the project.
Building Permit
A document issued by a governing authority, such
as a building department, granting permission to
undertake a construction project.
Call-back
An informal term for a return visit made by a
contractor to repair or replace items the home
owner has found to be unsatisfactory or that require
service under the warranty.
CGR
(Certified Graduate Remodelor)
A professional certified program offered through
the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
Remodelors Council. To attain the CGR designation,
a remodeler must take a specified number of
continuing education courses and must comply with
a strict code of ethics.
Cost-plus
Contract
Lien Release