You are getting ready to enter into a relationship, and the right contractor for your project is extremely important. This individual or company is going to work in and on your home on a daily basis. You need to find a company with credibility and credentials and also learn about the people who run it. The trust factor is the single key for most people when they hire a company.
Does the company have the ability to handle the project from a construction stand point? Do they have the personnel to help you through the project emotionally? Remodeling can be very stressful: workers are in your home everyday, there is dust everywhere, your normal everyday life has been temporarily interrupted. Will the contractor be there with you for the ups and downs of your project? Is he/she the type of person you would like to work with, and will he/she be careful with your possessions?
Following is a list of questions you should ask to help determine the company's ability, the trust factor, and how comfortable you would feel working with this contractor. PRICE IS NOT AN ISSUE AT THIS POINT!
- How long has your company been in business? Look for a company that has been in business for more than one year.
- Do you have references? You are looking for recent projects (over the past 2 or 3 years).
- Who will oversee the project? Are you talking to the salesperson or the contractor him/herself? If there is a project manager, can you meet and talk with this individual?
- Do you carry liability and accident insurance? All companies, large or small, should carry liability insurance. THIS IS A MUST! Larger companies will carry at least accident insurance to cover their employees. Do not hire a contractor without insurance! You could be liable.
- How many jobs do you have going at one time? Make sure the contractor is not overloaded and that he/she will be able to give your project the attention it deserves.
- Do I need a permit for this project? Most projects require a building permit. A qualified contractor will know if you need one and will obtain one before work begins. You can check with your local municipality to see if the type of project you are doing requires a permit.
