Choosing a Contractor

How Do You Choose?

Asking The Right Questions: Choosing a contractor can be over whelming. After all, depending on the project you may be spending the next three months together. It is crucial that the contractor is reputable and can prove to you that he will honor the promises he is making to you. Does the Contractor…

• Offer at least a 1 year written warranty?

• Respond to warranty calls immediately?  What is the process for doing so?

• Have a guaranteed price using a fixed-amount contract.  Is this a 1-2 page agreement or a thorough detailed contract covering what is included, and more importantly, what is NOT included in the project?

• Provide an upfront production schedule at contract signing so that you know what will happen during each phase throughout the duration of your project?

• Have written agreements with employees and trade contractors to ensure performance? 

• Have a list of outstanding references that you may contact on your own?

• Acquire permits and use licensed trade and mechanical contractors (e.g. Plumber, Electrician)?

• Have a license for performing RRP Lead renovations required by the EPA on all homes built in 1978 or before?

• Practice clear communication in a timely manner?

• Have a license required in your city?

• Have written testimonials from past clients?

• Show clear and well-done photos of past projects?

• Possess at least 1 million dollars in liability insurance coverage and require that all trade contractors possess the same, in addition to their own workman’s compensation?

• Have a clean reputation on the internet?

• Offer a detailed processes to carry you through the sales-design-production phases of a project?

• Have an idea of how long the project will take to complete, and also how long the design and planning phases will take?

• Present a bid that is extremely low?  Ask Why.

• Seem trustworthy and reliable?

• Communicate well with you, including listening?

• Have a plan for how he or she will respect your home and your family?