When you’re ready to start your home remodel, it’s important to find a contractor who is qualified to do the job. However, it’s equally important to find someone who meshes well with you. That’s why it’s worth spending time searching for a contractor with a process and personality that fit you. After all, you’ll be working with them for an extended period of time and will need to communicate frequently throughout the project.
When choosing a contractor, ask for examples of previous work they have done and look at photos of those projects. You should also ask what types of remodeling projects they specialize in and any relevant information, such as whether they’ve worked on kitchens or finished basements. This will give you an idea of the contractor’s experience in this particular type of project and how they approach it.
In addition to asking for references, you should also check a contractor’s licensing page online and review their certifications. Then, cross any contractors off your list that don’t have the correct credentials. It’s important to select a licensed contractor with the proper credentials for your project, including insurance, so you can be confident that they will complete the work safely and correctly.
Another factor to consider when choosing a contractor is how they’ll handle unexpected challenges during your project. You’ll want a contractor who is flexible and willing to find creative solutions when challenges arise. This can help keep your project on track and avoid budgetary overruns.
You’ll also want to choose a contractor who can answer any questions or concerns you have throughout the project. They should be able to explain their remodeling process clearly and respond to any questions promptly. They should also provide a clear contract that includes the project scope, timeline, payment schedule, and warranties.
Lastly, you should choose a contractor who will request and collect lien waivers for all tradespeople on the project. A lien waiver protects you as the homeowner by ensuring that all subcontractors and material suppliers who worked on your project have been paid. If a contractor fails to obtain lien waivers, it can leave you vulnerable to claims from unpaid contractors and other vendors.
In order to make the best decision, you’ll need to have a thorough consultation with each contractor on your list. You should be able to tell from the first few meetings if they are a good fit for your project.
During the consultation, you should ask each contractor to submit a bid for your project. Compare the bids to find the best value for your money. However, remember that the lowest bid doesn’t always mean you’ll end up with the best results. Be sure to weigh other factors, such as reliability, flexibility and their portfolio.