Posts Tagged ‘Work’
Finding The Right Contractor For Your Project
When it comes to remodeling or renovating your home, choosing the right contractor can make all the difference. The end results of such a project fully depend on the quality of the work done on your home, but a bad contractor can turn the process into a disaster. Horror stories abound about contractors, but there are many more reputable, reliable contractors who can help make your home remodeling experience a good one.
Your first step is finding two or three contractors to prepare a cost estimate for you. When searching for a good contractor, the first people you should ask for references are friends and family who have had their homes remodeled, since not only will you get to see with your own eyes if the work was done well, but you can also be sure of the sincerity of these references. However, if the project is quite different to what you want done, there may not be a good basis for comparison.
You can either check with local building associations for a good contractor, or local building supplies stores, and although the latter have a list of professionals in your district, it is not relevant to the quality of their work, but to the materials purchased.
Another good source of referrals is other contractors in related fields. Besides building contractors, a construction project usually involves electricians, plumbers and painters who can provide you with good referrals based on their dealings with them.
When you have found at least three contractors you think may be suitable, you will need to show them your plans and discuss the project in order for them to prepare a cost estimate. An experienced contractor should be able to advise you on materials and help to fine-tune the plans to accommodate budget restrictions.
Make sure that the contractor’s experience falls within the scope of your project. If for example you have a full-construction project and the contractor has specialized in renovations only, you will need to find another one with the necessary experience.
Furthermore, make sure that the contractor’s license and insurance are up-to-date and ask him to provide at least three references so that you can check his work. When you are checking the references, don’t forget to ask for an honest evaluation of the contractor in question along with any other problems that might have occurred during the work on those projects. If the previous projects are within driving distance you can also arrange for a viewing with their owners.
Consider the personalities involved. If you’re the hands-on type of person regarding this project and your contractor is not particularly fond of having you breathe down his neck, you can expect an ongoing battle of wills until the project ends. Depending on the scope of the project, the contractor could be in your home for 8 hours a day ñ for a few weeks, so being able to communicate and interact with each other is important.
Make sure you get the cost estimate in writing, with an itemized materials list, timing schedule and guarantee. Most contractors will require a deposit and incremental payments as the project proceeds, generally to cover material costs. This can vary between 10 and 30% of the total cost estimate. Be wary of contractors who ask for full payment upfront.
If a contractor is good enough for you, than he will be good enough for your family and friends, so don’t forget to recommend him to them when you find one.
About the author: Brenda Seal writes as a hobby and maintains websites featuring estee lauder perfume and gucci perfumes.
