1: RELIABILITY IS NUMBER ONE.
Look for a contractor who is licensed by your state, has been in business for at least 5 years, and carries workers compensation and general liability insurance(and get copies of his policies).Also make sure that he has sufficient capital and doesnt need your business to pay this months bills.
2: THE WORKMANSHIP TEST.
Most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work. The only way to judge workmanship is through on-site inspection. Ask for names of recent clients and arrange to examine projects similar to yours from recent and older jobs.
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: PRICE CHECK.
Double check the prices of the contractors, requesting a cost breakdown sheet. This should include expenses (including building permits and subcontractor bids), materials, fixtures, and labor. Do not forget to get a timetable
6: STICK WITH IT.
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.
Look for a contractor who is licensed by your state, has been in business for at least 5 years, and carries workers compensation and general liability insurance(and get copies of his policies).Also make sure that he has sufficient capital and doesnt need your business to pay this months bills.
2: THE WORKMANSHIP TEST.
Most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work. The only way to judge workmanship is through on-site inspection. Ask for names of recent clients and arrange to examine projects similar to yours from recent and older jobs.
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: PRICE CHECK.
Double check the prices of the contractors, requesting a cost breakdown sheet. This should include expenses (including building permits and subcontractor bids), materials, fixtures, and labor. Do not forget to get a timetable
6: STICK WITH IT.
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.
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher is well known in the Remodeling, Building and Home Accessories Fields. Before you make any large purchases for your home, go to 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.
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