You’ve decided it’s time to build your dream kitchen, or a luxury bath, or a full house renovation. That decision may be the easiest, because how do you find the best contractor for what you need? With a little due diligence you can find the right contractor for you, one with a reputable reputation, provides great work, and customer service. Keep these things in mind when hiring your contractor:
Know what you want. An estimate will be much more efficient if you have a good idea of what your want, including materials that you’d like used.
Get referrals. Your friends and family are a great resource. See a friend’s home that’s recently been updated and you love it, ask her who her contractor is. She will be honest with you about the experience. You may also inquire with your local building inspector, or even home store. They have experience with the contractors in your area.
Speak with the contractor’s referrals. Ask them how their project went. Was the contractor courteous, careful with the property, timely, on budget? You may even want to visit the property to see the finished result.
Read online reviews. These are in addition to the referrals. If you like what you read, you’ll know if the contractor is the right one for you.
Check to make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. You’ll want to be sure that they’re licensed for your area. This will protect your liability.
A good contractor will be busy. Don’t get frustrated if a contractor can’t get to you right away – busy contractors are good contractors.
Do a quick phone interview. Ask if they can manage your project, if they have referrals they can provide, when they’d be available for your project.
Meet face-to-face. Once you’ve decided a three or four contractors schedule an estimate with them where you can go over the project more thoroughly and answer any questions you may have. Before you hire, check with your state's consumer protection agency or your local Better Business Bureau to make sure they don't have a history of disputes with clients or subcontractors.
Don’t let price be your guide. It’s sometimes more important on how well you get along and communicate with the contractor, their good referrals, and jobs well done. Don’t take the lowball bid because it’s the lowest – think about these other factors as well.
Expect to pay a deposit. A deposit will be required, but do not pay in full prior to the project starting. On a large project a good contractor will set up a payment schedule that works for both of you.
If you have any more questions about hiring the best contractor for your project please contact us at 302.312.6051, or email us at questions@blwardassociates.com. We are here to help you complete the dream you have for your home.