Have Confidence In Your Contractor
Before you sign anything, run through these set of questions to make sure your remodeling investment is secure. Choosing a contractor isn’t rocket science, but it’s just as important.
How Does The Estimate Process Work?
Some contractors give free estimates, others give free phone estimates. Make sure you ask before making an appointment for an on-site estimate. An itemized estimate is key so you can compare accurately between contractors. If an estimate comes back too good to be true, there’s probably a lack of key services or items left off. A liability release in the contract will ensure both you and your contractor are protected in the case of any on-site accidents.
What Is The Payment Schedule?
It’s common for upstanding contractors to ask for a materials deposit before work begins, but do not do business with anyone asking for the full amount upfront. You want to make sure the work is up to your standards before paying the rest.
Who Does Your Work?
Are they employees or sub-contractors? Employees of the company are much more familiar with their own workers than their sub-contractors’ employees. Contractors have done background checks on their own employees, personally supervised their work, and have more authority over them. Conversely, sub-contractor employees are supervised by another person who you may not know. All that to say, many trustworthy contractors have their favored sub-contractors who are just as pedigreed as trustworthy as they are. Find out what percentage of the contractor’s work is done with subs. Try to keep it at or below 25 percent.
Will there be a foreman on the site? This person is your main point of communication about the progress of your project.
Can They Guarantee Their Work?
In your contract, make sure you spot a few important elements. First, who will be obtaining the permits for your project? Secondly, what warranties will come with your finished product? Make sure you don’t sign until you are completely happy with your paperwork. If you are unsure about a certain aspect, talk to your potential contractor and ask them to explain. The issue could be an industry-wide standard or it could be unique to the contractor. There are no stupid questions, and your contractor owes you a transparent reading of your paperwork.
What Happens In The Event Of An On-Site Accident?
Anyone doing professional work on your home should be insured. If they are not, you could be on the hook for medical and other bills incurred from an accident. Don’t put yourself in that position, ask to see their insurance documentation. Make sure that the insurances covers their workers as well as you, your family, or your guests should they get hurt. You can look on Angie’s List or The Better Business Bureau for an insured contractor.
What’s The Project Timeline?
Let your contractor know your timeline so they can accurately schedule your work. Knowing they need to get your work done before your guests arrive or your daughter gets married in your backyard or your garden party this spring will make all the difference in your remodeling experience. Open communication is key.
If you’re ready to get your remodeling project going, give us a call or fill out the contact form. We promise to treat you and your project with the utmost respect and care.