How do I know if a contractor is qualified and reliable?
Finding a qualified and reliable contractor for your home improvement project can be challenging, but there are some steps you can take to make the process easier and more successful.
Here are some tips for you:
Have a detailed plan of what you want to accomplish and what your budget is. (I have a guide to help you with this). This will help you communicate your expectations and compare bids from different contractors.
Ask for references from family, friends, neighbors, or online sources. You can also check the ratings and reviews of contractors on websites like HomeAdvisor, Angi, Yelp, or Google
Call your local home builders association. If they have a website (which they should) they have a directory that you can use. If you talk to their staff, they should be able to give you a list of General Contractors (not sub contractors) for you to contact.
Interview at least three contractors and ask them about their experience, qualifications, licenses, insurance, and availability. You can also ask to see their portfolio or previous work samples
Verify the contractor’s license and insurance information. You can check the state-by-state licensing requirements and the validity of the contractor’s license online. You can also ask for proof of insurance and make sure it covers liability and workers’ compensation
Compare and accept bids from the contractors you interviewed. Make sure the bids are detailed and include the scope of work, materials, labor, timeline, and payment schedule. Choose the contractor that offers the best value and quality, not necessarily the lowest price
Sign a contract and negotiate ground rules with the contractor. The contract should include everything that was agreed upon in the bid, as well as any warranties, guarantees, or contingencies. (Keep in mind if you want to order some items yourself, they may not have a warranty if it is not sold through their usual supplier). The ground rules should cover issues such as working hours, access to your home, cleanup, and communication
Make sure the contractor obtains all the necessary permits for the project. You can check with your local building department or code enforcement office to find out what permits are required and how to obtain them. (You should call the permit office yourself and describe your project just to make sure you really need a permit).
Expect to pay a deposit, but not the full amount upfront. A reasonable deposit is usually 10% to 20% of the total cost of the project, depending on the size and complexity of the work. You should also set up a payment schedule that is tied to the completion of specific milestones or phases of the project
Budget for unexpected costs and be prepared for changes or delays. Home improvement projects often encounter unforeseen problems or complications that can increase the cost or time of the project. You should have a contingency fund of at least 10% to 15% of the total budget to cover any extra expenses. You should also be flexible and communicate with the contractor about any changes or issues that arise
Talk to the contractor frequently and monitor the progress of the project. You should have regular updates and feedback from the contractor, either in person, by phone, or by email. You should also visit the work site often and inspect the quality and accuracy of the work. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask the contractor or address them as soon as possible
Get lien releases and receipts from the contractor and any subcontractors or suppliers. A lien release is a document that waives the right of the contractor or subcontractor to place a lien on your property if they are not paid. A receipt is a proof of payment that shows the amount and date of the transaction. You should get these documents every time you make a payment or when the project is completed
Don’t make the final payment until the project is complete and you are satisfied. You should inspect the final work and make sure it meets your expectations and the contract specifications. You should also make sure the contractor has cleaned up the work site and removed any debris or materials. If you have any issues or complaints, you should resolve them with the contractor before making the final payment
I hope these tips help you find and hire a good contractor for your home improvement project. If you need more information or assistance, please let me know. I’m always happy to help you.
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