Home improvement projects are no joke. It requires your time, money and decision making. The decision making also includes hiring the right contractor for the job. Hiring the right team is essential as the success of your entire project will depend on it.
With the right contractor, you can ensure that the job is done correctly and within your budget. You will be surprised to know how many people regret hiring the wrong contractors. It is essential that you trust your contractor and enjoy the home improvement process. Choosing the right one isn’t easy, nor is it tough. If you know what to look for, you can simplify the process.
Here are some tips for hiring a home improvement contractor:
1.Communication is Essential
The person you can easily communicate your ideas with is the person you want as your home improvement contractor. It is essential that you and your contractor are on the same page. They need to understand your goals, believe in feedback and wouldn’t mind staying in connection via email, phone or text messages. A weekly update is desirable, if not necessary. The contractor must be happy to share information with you, after all it’s your pet project.
2. Be Clear on the budget
One of the best tips for hiring a home improvement contractor is to be upfront about your budget. Let them know that how much you are willing to pay for your renovation work. The home improvement companies can work in all kinds of budget; hence they will have little difficulty in working with your budget. It will also save you time and money. Once they know your budget, they can suggest the best home improvement ideas for you.
3. Price or quality
In the end every homeowner wants to save as much money as they can. Comparing quotes is one of the best ways to hire a competent contractor. But, the lowest bid isn’t always the best one. The quality of the materials used reflects on the price. Do you want to compromise on the quality? This is essential question you need to ask.
Home improvement is something you don’t do every day. And, if you are adding a new room or completely redoing your kitchen, wouldn’t it be wise to pay more attention on the quality rather than on the price? Set your priorities and then you can find the right contractor fitting your requirements.
4. Do your homework
Don’t depend on contractor alone for understanding everything related to the project. Before you hire a contractor or look for them, educate yourself about the different aspects of home improvement projects.
Find out about what permits you need for construction. Building laws and regulation vary from state to state. Make sure you know about the regulations you need to follow in your areas. Even though the contractor is responsible for acquiring the permits for construction, you should ask about it and various other things that matter.
5. Credentials Matter
Checking the credentials of your potential contractor is one of the top most tips for hiring a home improvement contractor. Hire a licensed, bonded and insured contractor for your home improvement projects. Ask for the documents to verify their claim.
Certification and membership to organizations like certified graduate remodeler (CGR), certified aging in place specialist (CAPS), Building Industry Association membership (BIA) and National Association of Home Builders membership (NAHB) can help establish their authenticity. The certification from such organization also says that the builders are bound to strict code of ethics.
6. Get Written Estimates
One of the crucial things to consider when hiring a contractor is to get the estimates in writing. A written estimate will give you the whole picture of the project. The contract should include everything from time frame to total cost to project description to your contractor’s license number and other important things. It will also give you an idea of how much the project will cost you. You can plan and reconsider your project or budget accordingly. Written estimates also ensure what you will be paying in the end and that there are no hidden charges.
7. Schedule a Final Walk through
Before the project is completed schedule a final walkthrough with your contractor. This is necessary to ensure that everything is in the place and all the tasks are completed. Sit with your contractor and make sure that all the things have been done including the final payment. It will take care of anything that was left out by any chance. It will also give you the chance to discuss about anything that you wanted to say about the project.
Conclusion
Follow these helpful tips for hiring home improvement contractor to find the right team for your home improvement project. Need help locating the right contractor? Contact us