Hiring a Contractor

Whether you are doing a small project or a major renovation project, the bottom line is that it can be stressful. But there are steps that you can take to minimize and reduce that stress. Be smart and do some research. Below are some important aspects to consider. But the most important tip is, do your research!

Be very clear as to what you want to achieve and what
your expectations are.
- You know what you want, but it is imperative that your vision is conveyed to your contractor. Draw diagrams, visit a Home Improvement Store, and choose specific name brands and models. Homeowner/Contractor communication is key to both parties being satisfied with the end result.

Know what you can afford.
- Don't stretch yourself too thin. If two different contractors tell you that a project will cost roughly $5,000, you should have double that as a safety cushion. Particularly on major renovations, there are unforseen issues that can become quite costly, that your contractor could not see when providing initial estimates. (Example: termite damage to floor boards under your existing kitchen floor)

Do some footwork.
- Get in your car and drive to the local home improvement store and check prices. It is standard practice for contractors to mark up product that they need to provide. This does not mean that you should provide all of the product, but you should definitely talk to your contractor about the subject. Keep in mind, very few contractors are going to take jobs where customers provide the materials. If you order a door, and they accidentally scratch it, they now need to reimburse you and replace the door. Not to mention, they have to take their time to drive and get the door. If you plan on nickle and diming your contractor, do the work yourself. Things cost what they cost, plus pick up and delivery and all the little extras that are needed to do a project correctly.

Get multiple estimates.
- You are paying the bill, get multiple estimates. If two contractors price a job close to $10,000 and a third prices it at $7,500 - STOP! Get a fourth estimate. Be very careful with estimates that are substantially lower. Remember, if it is too good to be true, it probably is.

Get it in writing.
- Estimates in writing should be very detailed. Make sure every concern is addressed.

Check all References.
- Do your homework! Take the time to call 3 references provided by a contractor. If he provides you with a preprinted list of references, ask for one reference of a job done last week. When you call on the references, ask specific, open ended questions.

1. Could you tell me what type of work he/she did for you?

2. How would you rate the quality of work?

3. Was there any issues with the project?

4. How did the estimate and the final total compare?
   
   Got the idea?

Know there work schedule.
- Find out before work starts, what hours contractors will be working. Do they come in 7am? What time do they work until?

Read the contract
-This is self explanatory.

Check licensing information.
- Is your contractor licensed? Find out?

Check insurance coverage.
- Make sure the insurance they provide is current and states the coverage.

Ask Friends and Neighbors.
- Everybody knows somebody. If you have never used a contractor, ask around. Neighbors, friends, co-workers, etc. But, do not forget to do the footwork.

Know when to move on to another contractor
- When a contractor is too gruff, talks to you like you are an idiot, is disrespectful, is late, has no manners, whatever it is - just move on. At the end of the day, you are paying the bill and there are certain expectations that you should have. A contractor should expect the same from you. If he tells you that he will be at your home at 9am and you decide to go to the gym and show up at 9:15am, your a jerk if you didn't call him/her. Be respectful, be appreciative, and most of all, LET THEM DO THEIR WORK! If you are by nature a chatter box, have someone else stay home with the contractor.

But seriously, the contractor - homeowner relationship should be a very mutually beneficial relationship. They bring their skill and you pay them a fair price. Make your contractor a cup of coffee, offer them a cold beverage, show them where the restroom is, etc. With clear communication and mutual respect, your project will turn out wonderfully.

Disclaimer: The above material is the webmaster's opinion only.