Hiring a remodeling contractor is a major investment, and it’s important to choose wisely. The wrong choice can mean an unfinished project, shoddy craftsmanship or even a significant increase in your overall cost.
There are a few key questions to ask about your potential contractor. These questions will help you find the best possible match.
The type of work you need done:
Before committing to hire any contractor, make sure that the person is licensed and insured in your state. This is to ensure that you will be protected should something go wrong with the work.
The type of materials you need:
You should also ask about the types of material that are suitable for your project, such as wood, concrete or stone. This will allow you to compare contractors who may have different opinions on which materials are best for your project.
The budget for the project:
If you’re planning a major remodel, it’s a good idea to have a firm budget in place before you start looking for a contractor. This will give you a sense of what can be expected from your renovation, and will prevent you from being surprised by unexpected costs later.
The scope of the project:
If there’s more than one room that needs to be remodeled, you should also ask about how the work will be divided. Some contractors like to work on the entire house in phases, and others prefer to work on just one room at a time.
The timeline for the project:
If your remodel will take a long period of time, it’s important to choose a contractor who has experience with your type of home improvement. In addition, you should choose someone who can communicate with you throughout the process.
The number of employees:
Another question to ask about your contractor is how many people will be involved in your project. A large team of people could be more organized and efficient than just a few individuals.
The location of the job:
For larger projects, it’s a good idea to ask about the distance between the job site and your home. This will let you know if your family pets or children will be affected by the work, and it will make sure that you’re not disturbed while the construction is underway.
Your personal belongings:
It’s a good idea to have your own furniture or other items moved out of the way while your project is under construction. It’s also a good idea to have these items stored during the work so that they don’t get damaged or lost.
Choosing the right contractor for your remodel can be a daunting task, but the process will be worth it in the end. Here are some tips to keep in mind when hiring a general contractor:
The first thing you should do is gather references and reviews of contractors who have worked on similar projects. Referrals from friends, coworkers and other people you trust will be especially helpful.