When making modifications and improvements to a home, selecting the most qualified home remodeling contractor is an important task. A home improvement project can include a number of general or custom interior and exterior projects to include windows, bathrooms, kitchens or even floors just to name a few. Therefore, it is imperative that only the best home remodeling contractor is chosen for the job. For a great home remodeling experience, consider the following tips for choosing the next contracting professional:
Tip 1 – Assess their Reputation
The first step in choosing a top home remodeling contractor is determining the company’s reputation. One of the easiest ways to determine if a contractor is reputable is to conduct some basic independent research on the internet. Simply type in the company’s name and look them up. Look for their active web presence and also look for independent reviews regarding the quality of their work. Home owners can also visit the state attorney general’s office to see if there are any complaints, problems or issues about the company reported. Homeowners can further visit the Better Business Bureau’s website to obtain the contractor’s rating. Specifically, look for unresolved complaints or problems as these could represent red flags regarding the company’s work ethic.
Tip 2 – Proper Licensing and Certifications
The next step is to verify that that the contractor has the proper licensing and certifications to perform the remodeling job. This may include business licenses, general contractor certifications, memberships with national associations. as well as business insurance. It is also perfectly normal to ask the contractor for copies of these items. A contractor should be more than happy to supply these documents upon request.
Tip 3 – Positive Reviews & Referrals
Home remodeling contractors who have been in business for several years should be able to supply excellent references and positive letters of recommendation from previous customers. Ask the contractor for a list of such references. References may also be provided by banks, business associates and even vendors. Good references are indicators of how the contractor works. When calling references, it is important to inquire about what went well and what did not go so well. The following set of questions can also be asked to determine whether or not this contractor is really a good fit or not:
- Did the contractor perform work as promised? For example, did he show up on time on scheduled remodel days?
- Did the contractor listen to the homeowner’s needs before, during and after the project?
- Were there any issues with the contractor’s work after the project was completed?
- If there were concerns, how did the contractor correct these issues?
- Would they hire the contractor again or recommend them to others?
Tip 4 – Assess Workmanship
A reputable home remodeling contractor will take pride in their work, they will ensure a safe renovation project and will be there every step of the way to provide a pleasant and memorable experience based on the homeowner’s specific needs. Therefore, ask the contractor for before and after pictures of completed projects. Where possible go and visit actual locations where the contractor has performed work. This will provide the client with an opportunity to see the contractor’s workmanship in person.
Tip 5 – Request Multiple Estimates & Presentations
Obtain multiple estimates from various contractors prior to making a decision. Estimates should be free of charge and they should also include a sales presentation. During the presentation pay attention to what the sales person says and does. Does the sales person’s presentation look polished? Did they demonstrate a high level of professionalism? Does the company specialize in the type of work that needs to be done? Were they courteous, engaging in open communication and dialogue that addressed all of the homeowner’s questions and concerns? Additionally, a good contractor will be able to make recommendations on the project and even give the homeowner new ideas that were not previously thought of. A really good contractor will be an advisor and an expert in their field. These are all good indicators as to whether or not this contractor is the right one for the job.
Overall, a renovation mishaps can be avoided by taking the steps necessary to choose a contractor who is a good fit for the remodel project being performed. There are many top home remodeling contractors in the local area who have excellent service records, who can provide proof of workmanship and who can add real value to a home.