Choosing the right design-build professional is always a
difficult decision. In recent years, with the remodeling market flooded by
contractors who typically work in new construction, many homeowners have chosen
contractors based solely on price, which can prove to be disastrous down the
road when a project goes awry or the contractor disappears. Price is only one
part of the equation. Let’s take a look at the whole picture and consider some questions you should ask your contractor when planning your next remodeling
project.
1. Are you
licensed?
Most states require
contractors, even sub-contractors, to be licensed. Make sure your contractor is
properly licensed by asking to see their license or asking for a copy of it.
Also remember to check the expiration date. If a contractor cannot produce a
valid license, it would be in your best interest to look elsewhere for your remodeling
needs.
2. Will
you provide me with references from clients, as well as credit
references from vendors and banks?
A good contractor
will be happy to provide you with references. You should look for a
well-established contractor who can give you several client references. You
also want to ensure the contractor is financially sound and will not be declaring
bankruptcy during your project. In order to protect your investment, ask for credit
references from your contractor’s vendors and banks.
3. Do you
guarantee your work?
Your contractor
should guarantee their work for at least one year from date of completion; many
contractors provide multi-year warranties. Ask what their warranty is on
finishes, systems and structural.
4. How do
you handle the “dirty work”?
Construction is
potentially dusty and dirty. Ask how your contractor plans to keep the dust contained.
Ask how they will protect your home, yard, children and pets. Make sure the
contractor has a plan in place to sweep up and place all construction debris in
a predetermined place or refuse container at the end of every day.
5. Do you
carry workers’ compensation insurance?
Make sure your
contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance, as it protects you from
liability if a worker is injured while on your property. If the contractor does
not carry workers’ compensation coverage, you may be liable for any injuries
suffered by the contractor, or any of his employees on your property. If the
contractor is a one-man operation, he can be exempt from having to carry
workers’ compensation insurance. If he is doing so legally, he can provide you
with a copy of his Construction Industry Certificate of Exemption from
Workers’ Compensation.
6. Will
you pull all the required building permits?
Make sure your
contractor pulls all required permits. When a contractor pulls the required
building permits, you know things will be done to “code.” Also, many
homeowners’ insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling
to keep your home properly covered. Many contractors prefer not to pull permits
because of the time involved and the “hassle” with the inspectors. A reputable
contractor will permit every job where a permit is required.
7. Who
will be in charge of the job?
Make sure the
contractor or his project manager is on the job whenever work is being
performed. The responsible party should be familiar with every aspect of your
project. This will put your mind at ease about the work that is being done in
your home, even when you aren’t present.
As
you can see, there is a lot more to consider when choosing your contractor than
price alone. When planning your next remodeling project, we encourage you to
use these questions as you vet contractors. Keep in mind, remodeling projects
succeed as partnerships between you and your remodeling contractor and not as
simple transactions.
