#finding a contractor

New Post has been published on http://theinsidewoman.com/ten-tips-on-choosing-a-contractor/

Ten Tips On Choosing A Contractor

Contractors are like car salesman, who do you trust? Here’s the deal, any business where there is fast cash and no college degree required, you are going to find it to be a transient industry. I was a car salesman, I am married to a contractor. My work stories are not that different from my husbands. I get it, choosing a contractor is tricky business. A car salesman doesn’t come into your home, depending on the job, a contractor might.

So what should you look for when choosing a Contractor?

  1. Online reviews are a good way to get a baseline, but can you really trust them? For all you know you could be basing a decision on Debbie the crazy cat lady. Ask friends or family for a referral. Another great source is your realtor. Real estate agents have people moving in and out of homes that need work, hence they have a go-to guy who they trust working on their bread and butter. They will not steer you wrong. Make sure you check the Better Business Bureau to see if the person in question is rated, and if they have any complaints.

2. Depending on the job you are planning, check out the contractor’s portfolio. If the job is minor, this may not be so important. However, if you are spending some coin, then make certain the quality of work is up to your standards.

3. Cheaper may turn out to be more expensive. The contractor who gives you the, “I can’t believe it’s so cheap” quote is not working for free. What materials is he using? Does he have experience or are you the guinea pig?

4. Communicate. Obviously a contractor will put his best foot forward when you first meet, but you want to pay attention to how easy (or hard) it is to communicate. You are going to need a clear dialogue throughout the process and he needs to understand your vision. Get rid of the yes man and get rid of the no eye contact guy.

5. Get it in writing. If someone is going to take a sledgehammer to a home that I work my butt off to pay bills for, then I want a contract. Anything over $1,000 should require one.

6. Is he licensed? You do not have to take his word for it, he could tell you he is licensed when in fact he is giving you a number for a home improvement registration. Depending upon your State, there are various sites you can check, such as the Department of Public Safety.

7. Always ask for proof of insurance if you are taking on a big job.

8. Permits are good. Anything over $1,000 usually requires a permit. If you are going to going to alter, repair, demolish you will probably need one. Ask the contractor if he is going to pull a permit, if he says no and you have doubts you can always check with your local building inspector.

9. Method of payment. There should be some sort of pay plan. Never pay in full upfront. Different states have limits as to how much a contractor can take up front.

10. Read the contract. Make sure you understand what you are getting into before you sign. If you have a question, ask. Leave nothing uncovered.

Use this checklist to help you select a home builder or home remodeler to work on or build your home. 

Make sure the builder or home remodeler has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.

Find out how long they have been in the building business. It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. You want to make sure they will be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties.

Make sure the builder/remodeler has sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance. If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises.

Ask the builder/remodeler to provide you with names of previous customers. If they won’t, beware. If they do, ask the customers if they would hire the builder/remodeler again.

Ask if you can see the builder/remodelers work, both completed and in progress. Check for quality of workmanship and materials.

Do you feel you can easily communicate with the builder/remodeler? Remember you will be in close contact with them throughout the construction process and afterward as you live in your new home.

Make sure the builder/remodeler provides you with a complete and clearly written contract. The contract will benefit both of you. If you are having a new home built, get and review a copy of the home warranty and homeowner manual as well.