This guide covers a residential construction or home improvement project from contractor selection through defect claims years later. Part 1 covers licensing, bonding, and insurance verification, and Part 2 sets out what the contract must contain. Part 3 covers the payment structure, which is the homeowner's principal protection, and Parts 4 and 5 cover change orders, allowances, and cost-plus controls. Part 6 covers permits and inspections, and Part 7 covers the mechanics lien system and the risk of paying twice for the same work. Part 8 covers defects, implied warranties, and the two clocks that end claims, and Part 9 covers abandonment and lawful termination. Parts 10 through 14 cover remedies ranked by collectibility, damages, arbitration, the consumer credit overlays, and practice notes by role.