5 Important things to consider when hiring a contractor

DIY is NOT always the solution. There are a few home improvements and projects you can work on but when it comes to renovating your kitchen or upgrading your bathroom.

You are not alone with your desires!

For several homeowners, the hardest part of the project is finding a professionally licensed and reliable contractor who can get the job done within your price range and in a reasonable amount of time.

All of this can sound stressful and expensive but when you find the right contractor, you can make the difference between a horrendous nightmare or a successfully beautiful home improvement.

Below are 5 of our tips before hiring your contractor! 

1. Ask questions and get a quote. 

Asking questions when you get your quote is how you are going to make sure you are choosing the right contractor.

The following topics can help with your interview before you hire them for your project. 

• Your projects within their area of expertise? 
• Are there projects they have worked on similar to yours? 
• What is the time frame for your project? 
• Are they working on any other projects? 
• Do they have a list of previous clients and references?
• Can they provide license and insurance information? 
• Wich work will they be specifically doing? 
• What will need to be completed by the subcontractor? 
• Also, What is the written bid of materials, labor, and permit fees? 

If your contractor cannot answer these questions, they are not going to be reliable or professional. You want to ask to make sure the completed project meets your satisfaction and you feel good moving forward. 

2. Know exactly what you want. 

You are the one who will live with the project. You have to make sure you communicate exactly what it is you want. After you ask some questions, make sure your contractor can accomplish your desires. 

3. Investigate your contractor. 

It is important to know your contractor’s work history and work habits. Some contractors are specialists, and some are generalist so when you are looking to higher one, you want to know that there is consistent client satisfaction.

Are they on time with their projects? Do they communicate well? Answers to these questions will determine the quality of work. 

4. Know your total.

Everyone loves a free quote. Most contractors will apply a “scope of work proposal” if the job requires more money than though.

Some contractors will work on a fixed bid, but some work on a “cost plus” basis. You will be paying for materials, time/labor, and an administrative fee. 

5. Read the contract details. 

There should be start and completion dates, building permits and fees (this is your duty), a detailed list of what will be done and what will be used and what will be provided by the contractor, terms of payment, and consequences for either party by default (this can be a contractor not paying subcontractors). 

No to projects are the same, so when it comes to finding a contractor no two people are the same either. Trusting who you choose to do your project is important.

Finally It is also important to be comfortable, so never be afraid to ask ‘too many questions. Reach out to our staff with any questions you may have!