Things to Do Before Hiring a Residential Contractor

Do you plan on doing any renovations this coming year, or a home project that seems simple yet you still can’t find the time for? Planning is the key word for any successful outcome of a project. One of the first essential steps when beginning a project too large to handle would be hiring a contractor. They must be reliable, trustworthy and, in addition, a good reputation. The contractor will not only think about the bigger picture first, but will also be the person who guides you from that very first nail to the very last. So here are a few tips and precautions to follow before you consider hiring a residential contractor!

How to find a good contractor?

• Don’t be shy to ask for advice from family, friends and neighbors, many people hire contractors and they may just know the best one for you. As well, you’ll find out the names of some well-trusted handymen.
• Make sure to obtain full information on how to reach your contractor in case of emergencies. If anything were to happen, then you would need to be able to contact them.
• Before deciding on your choice of guide, make sure you know their methods, strategies and effectiveness. Ask to see his previous work and if he has any references.
• Ask any of their former clients about the quality of the work they’ve done.

3 Things to Make Sure of Before Hiring a Contractor

Here are some tips to make sure you are protected when you are dealing with any construction company or any independent contractor.

1. Request an estimate

Before choosing a contractor to work with, you must draft a plan and hand it over to about three or four contractors so that they can provide a written estimate of costs and any materials that are needed to get the work done. Through the estimates of each, you will be able to choose a contractor that best benefits your preferences and budget.

2. Verify whether the contractor has a liability license

Make sure your contractor has a proper and up to date license. It is important in case there is any damage done to your property or belongings, along with anything belonging to visitors and neighbors.

3. Conclude the contract in person

One of the many recommendations from the Consumer Protections Office, is to request a written contract before hiring your contractor. The purpose of the contract is to ensure that the results conform to what was initially expected and agreed upon. What’s more, it makes it a tad easier to assert your rights in the event that the work is not done in a satisfactory manner. Information to include in the contract includes:

• The name and full address of the contractor;
• The expected start and end dates of the project
• A description of the work needed to be done and materials used;
• A statement from the contractor committing to abide by the municipal regulations and the National Building Code standards;
• The overall estimated cost of the job, as well as the terms of payment.

With the right preparation, you can start your construction or renovation project quickly and efficiently. The more prepared you are, the less amount of unsolvable problems will arise. If you are looking for a certified contractor, Dilamco has all the experience you need. Contact us today for a free quote!