Some home projects are DIY, and others could use a professional touch. When you find yourself looking at a project that requires hiring someone, you must consider a few factors to ensure a quality outcome. You want to hire a reputable contractor who not only has a great reputation and portfolio but also follows safety regulations such as wearing a hard hat on the job site. Find some tips that will help you find a reputable home contractor below.
Get Referrals From Your Community
First, ask friends and family members if they can recommend anyone. Referrals allow you to hear firsthand accounts of how well a contractor completed the work, the level customer service they provided, and whether there were any hiccups along the way. In addition, getting referrals from people in your local area makes it easier for you to tell whether a particular company has a good reputation for quality workmanship.
Gather Your Estimates
Remodeling without breaking the bank is possible, and getting estimates from at least three potential contractors will help. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The more quotes you have in front of you, the better an idea you’ll have of what your project will cost. It’s also important not to discount any estimates. A bigger, more well-known contractor might charge more than a smaller one, but if they can finish the job faster and do an exemplary job, the extra cost might be worth it.
- Ask for references. These can help you determine whether or not a contractor is trustworthy and whether they’ll provide quality workmanship as promised.
- You want someone who knows what they’re doing without question—especially because things often go wrong with projects such as these. Your contractor should have plenty of information available online. If not, request a portfolio of their work, including before-and-after images and videos of renovation projects.
Review the Written Contract
You can ask for a copy of the service contract in advance. If you would like to review the language of your commitment, you can read through a template or proposal that will outline the cost, expected turnaround time, and material details. You should never enter into a verbal agreement for any part of the project. This would not be a responsible decision, as it can lead to unclear expectations and frustration.
Narrow Down Your List
Once you have a list of contenders, talk to each one and get a feel for their personality and professionalism. Make a mental note of who communicates clearly and who is harder to reach. If you have a hard time getting a response from them now, this may indicate how communication will continue during the life of your project. Make your final choice based on who best understands your vision and your budget.
We hope that these tips will help you find a reputable home contractor who will give you an accurate estimate and stick to it as well as show up on time and complete the job to your expectations.