When you hire someone to perform work on your home, you’re trusting them with your most valuable asset. Contractors will likely be around your personal belongings, loved ones and even family pets. This is why it’s so critical to hire someone that you feel comfortable with. The internet is littered with horror stories of contractors starting construction and then leaving jobs unfinished. If you don’t want to end up paying for an unsatisfactory job, then follow these steps before welcoming workers into your home.
Do Your Research
Please, do not rely on Google searches to find a reputable contractor. The business with the biggest marketing budget is not necessarily the best one. Instead, talk to friends and family who live in the area and have had work done. Word of mouth is still a great resource.
If you don’t have any local contacts, then look to the local Chamber of Commerce. They will be able to provide you with a list of contractors in good standing. You can also ask your insurance company. These companies are wonderful resources, even if they aren’t paying for a repair. For example, your homeowner’s insurance keeps a list of approved plumbing companies Geneva IL. Each business has already been vetted and researched by your insurance company.
Get Multiple Estimates
It may be tempting to get one recommendation from a friend and call off your search. However, often jobs and expectations are different from person to person. Once you find two or three recommendations, ask for estimates from each of them. This isn’t completely about finding the best deal. This is also a way to test the communication skills of the contractor. Find out who you feel the most comfortable speaking to. Will they return your calls and keep appointments? Does it seem like they want the job?
Question Permits and Licenses
Asking questions will show how knowledgeable your contractor is. Securing permits and licenses can be a tricky process. If your contractor brushes off questions about the municipality and state laws, then they may not consider it an important part of their job. But it really is. Permits are designed to make sure renovations are done safely. Hiring a contractor who doesn’t follow the laws is a big risk.
Ask About Subcontractors
Sometimes, a construction company will pay other subcontractors to perform work on their behalf. This is normal. But, you want to make sure that subcontractors have oversite. Find out if subcontractors will be used and on what projects. Also, ask if the contractor has a close relationship with the subs. Have they worked together regularly? Who will check their work?