4 Tips for Choosing a Residential Construction Contractor
With all of the information available on websites like www.LocalConstructionPros.com it’s amazing to see how many people get themselves into sticky situations with residential construction contractors lacking in integrity. Folks, it takes more than a truck, some tools, and a cell phone to be a construction contractor. Please, read up on how to meet with contractors, review bids, read proposals, compare estimates, and ask the right questions. The consequences of not taking care of your end are great. There are some very simple steps a homeowner can take to protect themselves and to avoid unneeded frustration and expenses.
1) Make sure your construction contractor is licensed, has workers compensation insurance, general liability, and in some cases, if the project is very large as in a home addition, carry a bond. Some contractors will offer this information as part of their sales pitch, but if they don’t, be sure to ask for it. Please!!!! – make sure your contractor has up to date insurance, otherwise you might be liable for an injury or accident that occurs on your property.
2) Make sure your contractor uses a legitimate contract to outline every home improvement task to be performed. It’s not a bad idea to ask a friend, co-worker, or family member to look over the contract with you. Try to find someone who has experience in working with general construction contractors. Get as many details in the contract as you can to avoid any misunderstanding at the end of the project. And, yes, get it all in writing and signed! Do not be afraid to demand this, because any reputable construction contractor is used to doing business in this way. If you face any opposition, find another contractor.
3) The financial stability of your contractor is super important – bet you didn’t think of this one did you? If your contractor needs 50% of the payment upfront so he can order materials, it’s seriously time to find another residential construction contractor. The truth is, a reputable contractor will have accounts with many different suppliers, and if they’re in good standing, they will have no problem supplying materials until a portion of the work has been completed. Your home improvement payment schedule is one of the things that is outlined in the contract, so make sure you agree on it, and make the contractor stick to it .
4) References, References, References!!!! Call them all, and make sure your residential construction contractor has a good reputation. Did they do a good, clean job? Did they finish on time and within budget? Were they nice to have in your home everyday? Also, check with the state licensing board and the BBB to see if they have a clean record. If a contractor has had problems in the past you should proceed with caution.
It’s your responsibility to protect yourself, so start with the points discussed above, and do not gamble with your home improvement projects. Spend the time to do the research and hire a reputable residential construction contractor.
Go to www.LocalConstructionPros.com to find local residential construction contractors, home improvement article and videos, as well as unique home decor products. Find home renovation, home remodeling, kitchen and bathroom renovation contractors.
Find local residential construction contractors, articles, videos, and unique home decor products. Home renovation, home remodeling, kitchen and bathroom renovation contractors.
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