7 Things to Consider Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor
Choosing a contractor for your home remodel is a big decision. Pick the wrong person, and you could be in for a big waste of time and money. Choose the right person, and you could soon be living in the home you’ve been dreaming about.
Here are seven steps to help make sure you hire the best contractor for you.
1. Do you even need a contractor?
Depending on the size, type, and difficulty level of the project, you may want to do it on your own. However, it’s easy to get in over your head. At first, doing it yourself may seem like a good way to save money. But once you factor in tools, materials (and extra materials for do-overs), it may not be much of a money saver. And remember, without a contractor, you’ll have to pull any necessary permits yourself.
If you can’t decide whether or not to hire a contractor, you may want to consider our Budget Basement DIY Option. We’ll do the hard part (electrical, heating, plumbing), and you customize as you see fit. But for the sake of this post, let’s assume you want to hire a contractor for the entire project.
2. Decide on as much detail as possible.
Before you start searching for contractors, determine the features, style, and approximate budget. For example, are you looking for something formal with high-end finishes like a wet bar or something more sturdy and utilitarian like a home gym or playroom? Knowing these things will give you solid footing and make communication with prospective contractors much easier.
3. Ask for remodeling company referrals.
It may seem old fashioned, but asking friends and family about who completed their projects can be very useful. With a website, you can see a company’s portfolio, but a real person who’s worked with them can give you a first-hand account of what day-to-day interaction with the company is like.
4. Look through the websites and portfolios of contractors in your area.
This may seem obvious but use this opportunity to find companies that align with the type of remodeling you want. Pick a contractor who specializes in basements, kitchens, or whatever you’re remodeling. If your job requires a high level of skill, such as the installation of ceramic tile, choose someone who specializes in that type of project. This is a good time to explore platforms like Instagram for both inspirations and to scout potential remodeling companies.
5. Pick 2-3 remodeling contractors to give bids.
This may seem like a lot, but this process will provide you with a good sense of how much it should cost, how long it should take, and the kind of contractor you’d like to work with. When discussing the project, make sure to ask questions about expectations and the construction process.
6. Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured.
This may seem obvious, but this very important. If someone is injured on your job, you don’t want to be held responsible. The law requires that any licensed contractor be properly insured. You are well within your rights to ask for a copy of their proof of insurance documents. Any good contractor will enthusiastically say yes when asking if they’re fully covered.
7. Choose the remodeling contractor who’s on the right page with you.
Pick someone who’s experienced, friendly, and understands your goals. You don’t have to be best friends with your contractor, but you’ll be interacting a lot. You might as well choose some you get along with. Also, consider things like their proposed construction time and step-by-step building process.
And please remember … Once you’ve chosen the contractor that fits your budget, style, and personality, expect their schedule to be busy. If they’re good enough for you, they’re probably good enough for a lot of people. Expect to wait a few weeks for the job to actually start.
