Finding a general contractor that is trustworthy, affordable, and talented is hard work. It’s not uncommon for people to get overcharged or even cheated out of their money. The key to success in your search comes from shopping around, keeping an open mind, and doing a good deal of research. When you first begin your search, it’s important to look for reputable companies. Look into at least three different contractors and be sure to meet with each of them individually. Be sure to review previous work, get testimonies from past clients, check out their portfolios, and call their references for additional information. Don’t underestimate the power of Google either. The more hits you can find on their company, the more reliable they’ll probably be. Creating a list of things you deem important in a contractor can be very helpful. Once you meet with each of them, be sure to construct an agreement that is both clear and fair to either party. Check to make sure that your contractor is fully licensed and insured for worker’s compensation, personal liability, and property damage. Be sure that they are able and willing to work with your schedule and can handle the job you need to be completed. When meeting with each contractor, be sure to inquire about any other jobs that they will have going on, their level of commitment to your project, and how much personal supervision will be given throughout work in your home. After you’ve shopped around and done your research, request formal bids from your prime candidates that break down the exact specifications of the work that will be completed, and the cost for everything. After you’ve received these bids, you have a lot to consider. Don’t just jump into the contractor with the lowest bid. The amount of experience a contractor has, and your chemistry with them is key. Be weary of bids that are “too good to be true” because it most likely is. Always remember that the person you hire will be working in your home for some time, and you will have to be comfortable enough with this person to express any concerns or pose any questions you will have. Once you have chosen one contractor, be sure to obtain their contractor’s license information and also obtain the name of the insurance carrier and agency so you can check the coverage. As I mentioned earlier, keeping an open mind throughout all of this is key. With these tips in mind you may find a reliable general contractor that you’d be willing to recommend and repeat working with. Good luck with all of your home project endeavors and your search for a reliable contractor!
Tags: contracting license, contractor salaries, formal bid, general contracting, home construction, home remodeling, interior design, renovation, repair, subcontractors
