1: HE MUST BE RELIABLE.
If your state requires a contractor's license, make sure he has one. Additionally, he should have been in business for 5 years or more, carry workmen's compensation and general liability insurance (get copies of the policies). Finally, make sure he doesn't need your check to pay this month's bills.
2: STANDS BEHIND HIS WORK.
Referrals are the best way to choose. If that isn't a possibility, ask for references. The only way to judge the quality of his work is through on-site inspection. If you can see first hand some of his previous jobs that would be great. If not, most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work.
3: TRUST AND WORKING TOGETHER.
Best contractors care as much as you do. If you want to be involved in every decision, then hire a contractor who is comfortable with close supervision. If you want to leave the details to an expert, then hire one whose decisions you trust.
4: BIDS.
Try to get three bids. To get these bids, write out your specifications, including fixtures and sample building materials. Give a copy to each contractor submitting a bid. The more detailed the specifications, the easier it will be to compare bids because all should use same materials in their cost breakdowns. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a designer to create the specifications before you. Although the designer step may seem like an extra cost, it may save you money and frustration in the long run.
5: CHECK PRICES.
Request a cost breakdown sheet and double check all the prices. This should include labor, materials, fixtures, and expenses (including subcontractor bids and building permits). Finally, make sure that your contractor gives you a fixed timetable.
6: DON'T GIVE UP.
Even the best contractor needs to be watched. The most successful projects are the ones in which you keep a watchful eye and not walk away. Write the check to a company. 30% is a reasonable down payment upon delivery of materials. Only make final payments when the work is completed to your satisfaction. - 16459
If your state requires a contractor's license, make sure he has one. Additionally, he should have been in business for 5 years or more, carry workmen's compensation and general liability insurance (get copies of the policies). Finally, make sure he doesn't need your check to pay this month's bills.
2: STANDS BEHIND HIS WORK.
Referrals are the best way to choose. If that isn't a possibility, ask for references. The only way to judge the quality of his work is through on-site inspection. If you can see first hand some of his previous jobs that would be great. If not, most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work.
3: TRUST AND WORKING TOGETHER.
Best contractors care as much as you do. If you want to be involved in every decision, then hire a contractor who is comfortable with close supervision. If you want to leave the details to an expert, then hire one whose decisions you trust.
4: BIDS.
Try to get three bids. To get these bids, write out your specifications, including fixtures and sample building materials. Give a copy to each contractor submitting a bid. The more detailed the specifications, the easier it will be to compare bids because all should use same materials in their cost breakdowns. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a designer to create the specifications before you. Although the designer step may seem like an extra cost, it may save you money and frustration in the long run.
5: CHECK PRICES.
Request a cost breakdown sheet and double check all the prices. This should include labor, materials, fixtures, and expenses (including subcontractor bids and building permits). Finally, make sure that your contractor gives you a fixed timetable.
6: DON'T GIVE UP.
Even the best contractor needs to be watched. The most successful projects are the ones in which you keep a watchful eye and not walk away. Write the check to a company. 30% is a reasonable down payment upon delivery of materials. Only make final payments when the work is completed to your satisfaction. - 16459
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher is well known in the Home Improvement, Building and Remodeling Fields. Before you make any big purchases for your home, check out the Home Remodeling Portal where you can find information on thousands of products at the click of a mouse, as well as, several informative "6 Things To Know Before You Buy..." articles.
