How to Find a Good Contractor for Home Improvement Repairs
How to Find a Good Contractor for Home Improvement Repairs
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John Davidson
When choosing a contractor, nothing is more important than references. Ask friends, relatives and co-workers for references. People in your neighborhood who have done similar projects are your best sources. If you know people in the building trades, ask them, too.
How do I find a good contractor for home improvements?
Know What You Want Before You Get Estimates.
Ask Friends, Relatives and Co-Workers for References.
Interview at Least 5 Contractors.
Be Realistic About Availability.
Ask What Work Will Be Done by Subcontractors.
Choose the Right Contractor for the Right Project.
Check Licenses, Complaints and Litigation History.
How do I find a good reliable contractor?
Use reputable sources to find a reliable home contractor. ...
Interview multiple contractors. ...
Ask for references. ...
Ask for a formal bid or estimate.
Check out their license. ...
Conduct a thorough background check. ...
Find out about subcontractors. ...
Ask about necessary insurance and permits before getting started.
How do I choose a contractor for renovations?
So, here are six things to consider when choosing a contractor for your next home remodel project.
Know What You Want.
Ask Your Friends and Family.
Look for Online Reviews.
Speak With Multiple Contractors.
Check References and BBB Ratings.
What's the best way to find a contractor?
Call around and go visit previous or current construction sites, especially if you're hiring them for a large project. This is the best way to find a reliable contractor in your area whose work you can trust. Be aware of the details. When you're learning how to find a reliable contractor, every detail matters.
What should you not say to a contractor?
8 Things You Should Never Say to a Contractor
'I'm not in a hurry' ...
'I know a great roofer/electrician/cabinet installer! ...
'We had no idea this would be so expensive' ...
'Why can't you work during the thunderstorm/snow/heat wave? ...
'I'll buy my own materials' ...
'I can't pay you today. ...
'I'll pay upfront' ...
'I'm old school.
Why are contractors so unreliable?
All in all the building contractors have the power, and they know it. They can walk away from your project far more easily than you can walk away from them. ... You are relying solely on their personal senses of pride and professionalism - if those are low, the contractor will be unreliable every time.
Why do contractors take so long?
The reason why home remodeling projects tend to always cost more and take longer than agreed upon is because some general contractors want to make maximum money from you. Making maximum profits is Business 101. However, some general contractors (GC) go too far.
Is it cheaper to be your own general contractor?
Serving as your own general contractor for a major remodeling or building project can potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars. But these savings come with a notable cost in terms of stress, time management, and perhaps even the quality of the work.
What do I need to know when hiring a contractor?
Hiring a Contractor Checklist and Tips
Get Multiple Estimates. Talk to several contractors and get written estimates from at least three. ...
Hire Local, Licensed Contractors Whenever Possible. ...
Check Their Past Work. ...
Take Your Time Making a Sound Decision. ...
Check Their Insurance and Bonding. ...
Get Everything in Writing. ...
Understand Your Right to Cancel. ...
Don't Pay Up-Front.
Is it worth hiring a general contractor?
If you think a week or more is needed, consider hiring a general contractor. With his or her knowledge of the time any subcontractors will need, the contractor can keep things moving smoothly.
How do I protect myself when hiring a contractor?
Some other best practices to keep in mind as you finalize a written agreement:
Make sure the contractor obtains a permit if the job requires one. ...
Ask for a copy of the contractor's license and proof of insurance. ...
Pay by check and get a receipt. ...
Document any changes to the contract in writing.
What documents should I ask for when hiring a contractor?
the contractor's name, address, phone, and license number (if required) an estimated start and completion date. the payment schedule for the contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers. the contractor's obligation to get all necessary permits.
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