How to Find a Contractor
When you’re thinking about a remodel, it’s natural to be nervous. It’s a big investment, and you’ve undoubtedly heard horror stories about contractors who don’t show up on the job or do shoddy work. But for every bad story about an unqualified or unethical contractor, there are dozens of positive experiences. How can you be sure to weed out the bad actors and find the people who will bring your dream renovation to fruition? From finding leads to requesting estimates to finally selecting your contractor, the process requires you to do research and ask questions—lots of questions! A renovation is a large investment of time and money, and you need to have a mutually respectful and comfortable working relationship with your contractor that will last throughout the entire renovation process and beyond.
First, start with national or local associations. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) backs its members and has strict standards for experience, training, and ethical conduct. Visit a home show to meet contractors in person. Ask neighbors, family, and friends about their experiences. Look for work being done in your area and strike up conversations with homeowners. Those who have gone through a remodel usually love to talk about it, whether they rave about their contractor or have complaints. The best referrals come from personal experience.
Narrowing down your list can be done through basic research. Do they have a full business name and address? Do they have a local telephone number? How long have they been in business? Do they have a positive rating with the Better Business Bureau? Check online reviews on Google, Facebook, Houzz, or similar sites. Look for written reviews from prior customers, not just a star rating. Are they licensed and insured, so you’re protected against any mishaps during construction?
Remember that you’re looking for someone you’ll be comfortable working with over a long period of time. Open communication, respect, and trust are key. A contractor should be willing to spend time with you, either in person or by phone. Be upfront about your budget and open about your questions. Some things to ask at this stage:
- What is their process? Will they give you updates and progress reports?
- Will they provide references, and can you see examples of their work?
- How are changes and unexpected costs handled?
- Do they source their materials locally? You’re looking for quality, as well as efficiency; you don’t want delays because materials are hung up in transit.
- Do they offer a warranty? What happens if something goes wrong after the work is completed?
- If they use subcontractors, will they share their names, so you know who will be coming into your house?
- Will they provide a written contract, and give you ample time to review it?
- How do they handle hazardous materials, such as lead paint or varnish? Dust kicked up during renovations can be harmful and must be dealt with by people who know how to minimize the risk.
It’s a good idea to ask multiple final candidates for bids; three candidates is a good rule of thumb. While this allows you to compare pricing, pricing isn’t the only consideration. In fact, low bids often turn out to cost more in the long run. Check the proposals against your list of questions and make sure your concerns have been addressed accurately. Follow up with any questions or clarifications. Your contractor should be easy to contact, open to communication, and willing to address any issues. After all, you’re not making a one-time purchase; you’re building a professional relationship. You’re looking for character, competence, and a personal connection.
