How to Find Your

Perfect Contractor

 

If you’re like most homeowners, your home is your greatest financial investment. Therefore, it is wise to take the steps necessary to choose the right contractor when it comes time to remodel your home or take on a major project such as finishing your basement. Focusing on finding the best professional for you and your project will save you time, money, and frustration.

 

Many people approach the process of choosing a home remodeling or basement-finish contractor with great anxiety; after all, choosing who to trust with your project (and your investment) is nothing to take lightly. Choosing the right contractor can not only help increase the value of your home and prevent expensive problems from occurring in the future, but they can work with you to make your most beautiful dreams a reality.

 

It goes without saying that it is important to select someone who is technically competent, reliable, and honest. Our homes are sacred and when selecting a contractor to come into your home, you want to make the best, most educated decision.

Here are a few things to consider when hiring a contractor:

 

  • Never make price your most important consideration. A good contractor has a lot of time, equipment, and education invested in their trade. Sometimes the cheapest contractor can end up being the most expensive in the long run.
  • Be cautious about being lulled into using companies that do a lot of advertising and offer price specials. For example, a “free TV with every basement”, these “savings” are usually hidden in the price one way or another. Many consumer complaints originate from these situations.
  • A good contractor is likely going to have a full schedule. Don't expect them to be able to instantly help you. If they are unable to help you in a timely manner, ask if there is anyone else they could recommend to you. Good professionals usually know of other good professionals.
  • Do not pull the permits for the project yourself if you are hiring a contractor. This is their responsibility and you are paying them for their professionalism.
  • Lastly, if you have an issue with a contractor, don't hesitate to mention it in a friendly manner. A conscientious business person will want you, the customer, to be satisfied.

You've found a potential contractor for your remodel or basement finishing project?

 

 

Now’s the perfect time to have a conversation with them and ask them some key questions that will be important for you to consider before hiring.

 

1. How long have you been in business?

Choosing a company with experience means that you are not just gaining a contractor, you are gaining years of knowledge; not just on the industry, but on design trends, product longevity, and building techniques.

 

A solid company history can also show that the contractor has developed successful systems and best practices to ensure that their work is done correctly, in a timely manner, and on budget.

 

2. Are you insured?

Ask to see the contractor’s Certificate of Insurance. Contractors should have both Workman’s compensation and Liability Insurance.

 

3. Are you licensed?

Ask if the contractor is licensed, and if you can see their license. The license should be up to date, and from your local building department. You can always call the local building department and inquire about the contractor you are looking to hire. Remember, you are looking to hire the contractor and should get the professionalism that comes with.

 

4. Will you obtain the permits and set up the inspections required for this project?

Any project that changes the structure of your home requires permits to be pulled and inspections to be completed through the state of Colorado. A reputable contractor will know exactly what you need and how to get them. They should also be willing to pull the permits for you and take care of all of the scheduling for the necessary inspections.

 

5. What’s the payment schedule?

A reputable contractor will never ask for the entirety of the payment up front.  Typically, there will be a down payment (a percentage of the contract) up front. You can then talk to your contractor about setting up a specific payment schedule, agreed upon by both parties; either by dates or stages of completion.

 

6. What’s the timeline for completion?

It’s important as a homeowner to have realistic expectations regarding your home renovation or building project. Talking with the contractor regarding the timeline and completion schedule for the project up front is a great way to manage your expectations, discuss your concerns, any scheduling conflicts you might have, and how it will be handled if something comes up that changes the completion deadline. Ask your contractor on the expected date of completion.

 

7. Do you offer a warranty?

Many reputable contractors offer a warranty or guarantee of their work. It’s important to find out about what your contractor offers before you make the decision to hire them. Also, many materials that you will select for your project will offer a manufacturer's warranty as well, appliances or carpet for example. Be sure to request a copy of these documents as soon as they are available.

 

8. Who will be my point of contact, and what’s the best way to get a hold of him/her?

Good communication is key when maintaining a great relationship with your contractor throughout your project. Make sure that you know your point of contact. If you haven’t already, ask to meet your point of contact and their team before your project begins. Your contractor should be happy to build a relationship with you and to build your trust in their team.

 

9. How will you protect my home throughout this project?

There are many ways that a contractor should take measures to protect your home during a project. From properly storing tools during off-hours to ensuring the security of your home throughout all the comings and goings of the team; your contractor should have a clear process in place to ensure the overall care and safety of your home.  If your project is open to the existing house, make sure they use plastic and floor protection items in your home.

 

10. What will your schedule look like during the project?

Even if you don’t plan on being home during the team’s working hours, it’s important to understand what will be going on and any considerations that you’ll need to make. Smells, loud noises, foot traffic, etc are important to understand before the project begins. You may also want to let your neighbors know what’s going on and any considerations that they may need to make.

 

11. Do you have references?

Ask to see references, referrals, and/or testimonials from other clients. Most reputable contractors, especially those who have longevity in the community will gladly show you their references, testimonials, before/after photos, etc. Take the time to look at them. Have a phone number for a reference? Call it. Find out as much as you can about them and their work. The local Better Business Bureau is a great reference as well, see if they have an A+ rating and if there are any negative comments.

Hiring a contractor doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing. Knowing the right questions to ask can help you hire your perfect team quickly and effectively; allowing you to build a great relationship and a stunning finished product.

 

But, don’t forget, you play a key role in this relationship as well. Be honest and upfront about your hope for your project. Set your expectations. And, once you have found your ideal contractor, have confidence that they will use their skill, education, and knowledge of the industry to make your project exactly what you want it to be.

 

If you’re ready to begin the process, or even if you just want more information, please contact us!

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