Before signing any contractor on a project for your home, homeowners need to do their research about the proposed business contractor. Questions should include their insurance, licensing, reviews/references, timelines, payment schedule, and who to direct unforeseen issues to when necessary.
Renovating your home is a huge investment and homeowners need the right fit and have trust in the contractor before work begins. The trusting relationship with the contractor could lead to other projects down the road as homes are always in need of improvements due to wear and tear, lifestyle changes, or the desire to sell the home.
Ask family and friends for a reliable reference. That reference should have a website for their business with reviews on both social media and Google. Once you do the background references on your own- ask for an in-person meeting at your home.
Next Steps:
- Does the contractor have a license to perform the project in that specialty?
- Does their insurance cover any accidents that may occur on your homesite with Workman’s Compensation? What other credentials do they have in their craft?
- How many projects have they completed? How long has the contractor been in business?
- Can the contractor provide a testimonial from other homeowners they served? Are they listed in HomeAdvisor?
- Permitting can be challenging. Does this contractor handle all permits for HOA compliance, City regulations, and inspections?
- Ask for a schedule and date of completion. This will tell you how organized the contractor will be with your home project.
- What is their Service Contract Delivery? Guaranteed Maximum Pricing– where the entire cost of the project will not exceed the costs you agree to line by line. Lum Sum Delivery has one price for the project and individual costs are not added into the contract. If the project comes in less- the contractor keeps the funds, but it will not be more even if costs exceed the agreed amount. The last option is Cost, where you agree to the pricing for the project, but it does not include delays or additional surprise costs.
- What is the payment schedule? Have a complete understanding if each milestone will be a payment, all costs are paid before the project is completed, or when the project is completed.
Wrap Up Thoughts
How does this contractor prefer to be contacted? Are they available on weekends if there is a problem due to weather or unforeseen issues? Responsive communication will develop trusting relationships and continued projects in the future.
If the contractor is working inside your home, there may be an issue with utilizing parts of your home for living space including cooking. What is the policy for daily cleaning? Do they wait until the project is completed or clean the space before the end of the day?
As the project may consist of demolishing an area of your home, what safety protocols will be in place to protect the walls, floors, furniture, and securing the home before they leave for the day?
After the project is completed what does the warranty look like? Will the contractor come back to remedy a situation if not working properly? Most contractors will cover a one-year warranty, but you may consider a longer warranty. Ask if one is available.
Always ask questions thoroughly before signing an agreement for work on your biggest financial asset- your home. This will offer you top notch service from a contractor you trust!
