If you’re thinking about taking on a home improvement project, you need to first find the right contractor for the job. Unfortunately, there are many people out there who claim to be professionals who aren’t. How can you make certain that the contractor you hire is qualified?
Meet them in person
You will be relying on your contractor to make your vision reality. It’s important this person is someone who clearly listens to your ideas and understands your goals. To assure that you and the contractor are on the same page, meet them in person before scheduling any work. Talking over the phone or through email can only accomplish so much. If communication is an issue, keep searching.
Ask them to give you their credentials
Although it’s not necessary for contractors to have formal training or certifications, it may put you at a greater risk for working with someone who is unqualified. A quality contractor should be able to show you something to back up their abilities. This could be a certificate from training programs, licenses from trade organizations or a large portfolio of their successful projects. The more they can show, the more trustworthy they are.
Get multiple bids
While you can research the expected costs of a project online, these are general estimates and can vary wildly based on the specifics of what you need — think materials, size, scope, design and techniques. To get an accurate idea of cost, you need tailored bids. If you want to make sure you’re not being overcharged, get at least three so you can see exactly where your money is going. While cost should not determine everything, most people want a good balance between price and quality.
Make certain their contract holds both parties accountable
Because it is generally the contractor who creates the work contract, it is not uncommon for the terms to work in their favor. Be sure that the terms protect you as well. For example, what recourse do you have if the job is not to your standards? What steps will they take to ensure your safety and that of others? Look everything over to see if you’re comfortable with the terms before you sign.
And before you take on any home improvement project, speak with your insurance provider to assure the changes you make will not alter your coverage.
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