Remodeling a home can be a costly proposition, so you need to find a contractor who is reliable and reputable. You are going to need to do some investigative work before you sign on the dotted line. Failing to out some background information on home improvement contractors has cost people tens of thousands of dollars, not to mention a lot of hassle and heartache. Many contractors do shoddy work, fail to complete projects on time or go over budget. Always investigate thoroughly before you hire a contractor to remodel your home.
Regardless of whether you are planning a basement remodel, a kitchen remodel, a bathroom remodel or want some room additions in an expansive home remodel, it is always a good first step to contact your local builders association for a list of contractors who are members as this will help you avoid the cowboy builders and rogue traders. Check with your state’s regulatory or licensing board once you have your list of contractors. Find out if a prospective remodeling contractor is licensed, and if there have been any complaints made against him. Its a good idea toi also contact the Better Business Bureau. Once you are armed your research, request bids from at least 3 contractors. You shouldn’t necessarily hire the lowest bidder either; remember, they have to pay for their supplies and labor costs, so an excessively low bid should be a red flag.
Once you have it narrowed down to about three residential contractors, there is some information you need to get. Find out how long they have been in business. Make sure a prospective contractor is insured, including liability and workman’s compensation. If the contractor subcontracts, then find out if they have subcontractors that they work with regularly. Find out who supplies their building materials. Contact the subcontractors and suppliers and ask if they have a good working relationship with the contractor. Get references from three homeowners who have had projects done that are similar to yours. Contact them and make sure that they are satisfied with the work that was done, if the cost was at or near the contractor’s estimate, and if it was completed in the specified time frame. Once you find a contractor you have confidence in, you are ready to sign the contract.
Never hire a residential contractor without a written building contract. The building contract should state exactly what work is to be done, the cost of the project, approximately when it will be completed, and the materials to be used, including the brand names. It can be difficult to find a contractor who is reliable and reputable. Doing the homework before you hire is time consuming, but remember you are investing a substantial amount of money in your home improvement project. You want it to be money well spent.
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