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When it comes to building a home or remodeling, you usually can't do it alone. Unless you work in the construction industry or have a very willing friend or family member, you are going to need a contractor to help you complete your home improvement project. It's an important decision that shouldn't be rushed, though. Follow these steps on how to choose a contractor.
Step 1:

Ask family and friends for a referral. If you don't have experience working with a contractor, your family and friends likely do. Ask someone close to you for a contractor referral. You should also take the opportunity to quiz your family member about the contractor's fees, work ethic, skills and personality. All of these factors go into choosing a contractor that will work best for you. Remember to take notes about each contractor so that you can build a profile about each of them. This will help you to choose a contractor when you've got a few to choose from.

Step 2:

Look for a specialist. If you have a specific job that you need done, you would be better to hire a contractor that specializes in that area. For example, approach a kitchen remodeling company for your kitchen makeover, but not for your second storey addition. Seek out skilled contractors that have been doing projects just like yours for years. Again, write down any pertinent information about this contractor so that you have a record of him during the interview process later.

Step 3:

Check for licensing. Your city's contractor licensing board or office will have files on licensed contractors. You can approach them and ask about the licenses of any contractors you are considering. For tradesmen, you will also want to see their contractor's certification, worker's compensation status, and insurance liability certificates. If any of these documents are missing or outdated, that contractor may be bad news so steer clear.

Step 4:

Ask your contractor for references. If you don't have time to actually sit down with the contractor, at least ask him for some references. Get at least 3 references from people who worked with this contractor on projects similar to yours. And follow up with these people. Ask about their experiences, the quality of workmanship, and their overall satisfaction. You may also be interested in whether the contractor was clean, prompt and truthful with his estimates.

Step 5:

Ask the BBB. You will want to take the time to check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure that this contractor you chose has no complaints filed against him.

Step 6:

Get an estimate. At this stage, you may still be deciding between a few contractors. It's the estimate that will likely help to seal the deal. Ask each contractor for a written estimate. Don't necessarily go with the lowest bid. Take all factors into consideration before you choose a contractor.

Step 7:

Sign a contract. Your best bet in ensuring that your contractor holds up his end of the deal is to sign a contract with him. It should contain information about payment, materials, deadlines and guarantees. Have a notary look it over to ensure that you are covered in case of a problem. Once you choose a contractor and sign a contract with him, you can start to get excited. Your project should begin shortly!

Comments

I know that we often want to have this contract that details everyting but again, in the process, things get changed, added or what have you. It is important to get someone you trust or take the time to be there.

Mary Norton's picture
By Mary Norton 44 weeks 2 days