What must be included in a written home improvement contract?

A written home improvement contract must include a comprehensive description of the work to be performed, the total cost of the project, as well as the start and completion dates. This information serves several important purposes.

Firstly, a detailed description of the work ensures that both the contractor and the homeowner have a clear understanding of what is expected, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or disputes later in the project. Secondly, the total cost is crucial for budgeting and financial planning, allowing the homeowner to understand the full financial commitment. Lastly, specifying start and completion dates helps to set timelines and manage expectations regarding when the project will begin and when it will be completed.

In contrast, payment plan options, while important, do not encompass all the critical elements necessary for a home improvement contract. A summary of local building codes, although relevant, is not typically a requirement to be detailed in the contract itself. Similarly, including the contractor's personal biography is not pertinent to the contractual obligations and details of the project. Thus, option C is the most complete and relevant answer reflecting the essential components that must be included in a written home improvement contract.