Picking The Right Contractor
November 7, 2011
Selecting the right renovation contractor is one of the largest concerns when undergoing a home renovation. Being the case, I thought we should talk about how to choose the right renovation contractor.
Contractor renovation horror stories are everywhere; to choose the best renovation contractor, use the following checklist:
- Decide what kind of renovation contractor you need. A general contractor manages the renovation project, hires the necessary tradespeople and takes care of the permits. If it’s a smaller job, choose a specialized contractor who handles specific projects (like bathrooms or windows) and does the work himself.
- Interview different renovation contractors and get quotes from at least three. Ask about the contractor’s experience, talk to past clients and visit past renovation projects.
- Make sure each contractor has a license, liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance and a clean Better Business Bureau record. Then ask for a detailed renovation plan, including timeframe and cost.
- Get everything about your renovation in writing. Include a list of materials and brands required for your renovation, specifics in regards to labor to be performed (is site cleanup included?), warranties on the renovation, permit obligations, and how client changes or requests will be handled.
- Get your renovation contractor to agree on a payment plan for your home renovation. Include down payment amount (anything under 15% is reasonable).
- Work out a payment schedule with your renovation contractor and make sure payments sync with the work that’s been done – don’t pay half until it’s halfway complete.
- Schedule a final walk-through of your renovation with your contractor. Make sure to check off every detail in your new renovation. Make a list of things that still need to be done to the renovation before making the final payment to the renovation contractor.
Take the time to ensure that your treasured renovation goes as planned; use these tips to choose the best contractor!
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