Choosing the Right Contractor

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR

Choosing the right contractor for a project can be a daunting task. There are many, many things to be considered before doing so. Here are a few tips:

Do your homework:

• Use social media for references if possible.
• Speak to former customers if possible.
• Ask the contractor for references. If none are provided, this is a bad sign. Ask the references if they know any former customers of the contractor.
• Research the contractors history with local government agencies.
• Contact the Better Business Bureau.
• Ask for proof of a business license, as well as license classification type.
• Ask for proof of insurance.

Quality of Work:

• Review photographs of prior projects to see the type of quality and craftsmanship of the contractor.
• If the contractor has a showroom, visit this showroom to see for yourself.

Materials to be used:

• Are any special materials to be used? If so, is the contractor well versed in the use of the material?
• Are these products or materials readily available to the contractor? What is the lead time for availability from the contractor?
• Does the contractor have a designer to assist you with these choices?

Schedule:

• What is the contractor’s time-frame to complete the work in a timely fashion?
• Ask other references about the contractors track record of completing work on time.

Be sure to have a contract including cost, contingencies, agreed upon exclusions, and a schedule that is agreed and signed by both you-the customer, and the contractor.