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Selecting
the right contractor for your next project.
Choosing
your contractor is the most important decision you’ll make in a
remodeling project.
Your selection will ultimately determine the success of the job and your
enjoyment of the remodeling process.
Basic
Qualifications
It’s
a good idea to employ a contractor with an established business.
For a business to survive and thrive, it must have had at least
some success. An
established business has a track record you can review.
Use
your Better Business Bureau to find out if there have been any
complaints against a contractor you’re considering hiring.
In addition, ask to see a copy of the contractor’s certificate
of insurance, or for the name of his or her insurance agency to verify
coverage.
Professional
Trade Associations
Professional
trade associations like the National Association for the Remodeling
Industry (NARI) or local Home Builder’s Association are excellent
sources for finding qualified contractors. . . .
.
. . .
Referrals
According
to NARI, nearly 75% of all projects signed by contractors are the result
of referrals, either from previous clients or via word-of-mouth.
Referrals are not only a great source of business for
contractors, but are also among the best leads for homeowners to use to
find qualified remodelers.
Referrals
can come from relatives, friends, neighbors, co-workers, lenders,
architects/designers, real estate agents, suppliers and contractors. . .
.
.
. . .
Here’s
a list of questions to help you establish a contractor’s
qualifications and reputation, and to help you find the right person for
your remodeling job.
1.
How long have you been in business?
2.
Who will be assigned as a project supervisor for the job?
3.
What is the time frame for starting the project?
4.
What is your approach to a project of this scope?
5.
Do you have employees or do you use subcontractors?
6.
Is your company a full service or specialty contractor?
7.
Do you have design services available?
8.
Does your company carry worker’s compensation and liability
insurance?
9.
Do any of your employees hold trade certificates?
10.
How many projects like mine have you completed in the last
year?
11.
May I have a list of references for projects you’ve complete
which are similar to mine?
12.
Will we need a permit for this project?
Get
Competitive Bids
Once
you’ve narrowed your search to qualified contractors, it’s time to
solicit bids for your project. Make
sure that are bidding on the same scope and quality of work.
.
. . .
Price
is important, but should not be your most significant concern.
Given competitive bids, you should choose the company you feel
the most at ease with and the one best suited to the scope of your
project.
Also,
avoid any bidder asking for an unusually high down payment.
Different type projects require different levels of down payment,
so let the scope of the project be your guide.
Ask
For References
Before
you sign the construction contract, ask for references and follow up on
them. This step is critical
to qualifying the right contractor for your project.
Here are a few questions to ask previous customers:
·
Could you communicate well with the remodeler?
·
Were you pleased with the quality of work?
·
Were you satisfied with the way your contractor conducted
business?
·
Did the crew show up on time?
·
Was your job completed on schedule?
·
Did the contractor stay in touch throughout the project?
·
Was the jobsite kept neat?
·
How was the contractor on follow-up?
·
Did you have any problems with call backs?
·
Would you use the contractor again without hesitation?
Communication
Is Key
It’s
critical that you feel you can talk with your contractor. . . .
Your
Final Test
Hire
a contractor with whom you are comfortable.
A remodel takes a significant amount of time and you’ll be
around your contractor nearly every day.
Your goal is to hire someone you can trust.
By
taking the time to choose the right person for the job, you’re assured
of getting a remodeling professional that’s committed to the success
of your project.
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