Flooring in Dover, DE

The median home in Dover was built in 1983, and about 47% were built before 1980. In homes of this age, the main prep questions are usually subfloor flatness and moisture in concrete slabs. Ask the installer how both are checked. Federal EPA rules require firms that disturb painted surfaces in homes built before 1978 to follow lead-safe work practices. Ask whether the company is EPA lead-safe certified.

The U.S. Department of Energy places Kent County in climate zone 4A (mixed, humid). Humidity makes wood floors swell and shrink. Ask how long the flooring will acclimate and whether concrete slabs get a moisture test.

About 34% of homes in Dover are in buildings with five or more units. Condo buildings often need approval before new floors go in, and some require sound-reducing underlayment. Only about 47% of occupied homes in Dover are lived in by their owners, so many residents rent. Renters should check with the property owner or manager before hiring anyone for new flooring.

Replacing floor coverings usually does not need a permit, but repairing or replacing the subfloor or joists can. In Dover, permits come from the city's building department, or from Kent County for addresses outside city limits. Ask the company who pulls the permit, and keep a copy of it.

Delaware has no statewide general contractor license; the Division of Professional Regulation licenses plumbers, HVACR contractors and electricians. For other trades, ask your city or county building department which license applies, and ask the company for its license number.