A Guide to Hiring the Right Remodeling Contractor

1. Take Your Time to Find the Right Fit.
Before you settle on a remodeling contractor, explore your options. Aim to gather at least three written quotes to compare services and pricing.

2. Verify References and Recent Work.
Ask for references from past clients and take the time to reach out. If possible, visit a few completed projects to see the contractor's work firsthand.

3. Check for Complaints or Issues.
Reach out to your local chamber of commerce or the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the contractor.

4. Confirm Licenses, Insurance, and Permits.
Ensure that the contractor holds the necessary licenses and insurance coverage. Also, confirm their ability to secure any required permits for the work.

5. Understand Who Will Be Doing the Work.
Clarify if the contractor's own team will handle the entire project or if they plan to use subcontractors for certain tasks.

6. Review the Contract Thoroughly.
Read the contract in detail, ensuring it outlines the scope of work and specifies how changes will be managed.

7. Pay Attention to Timeline and Recourse.
The contract should clearly state the expected completion date and any steps you can take if the work isn’t finished on time.

8. Protect Yourself Against Code Violations.
Make sure the contract includes a clause that holds the contractor accountable for meeting building codes and regulations.

9. Clarify Cleanup and Damage Responsibility.
The contract should state who will handle cleanup and who will be liable for any damage that occurs during the project.

10. Ensure Material Quality.
Verify that the materials listed in the contract match what you agreed upon and meet your expectations.

11. Close the Deal Safely.
Keep in mind that you can usually cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.

12. Make a Reasonable Down Payment.
Provide a small initial payment so that you minimize your risk if the contractor doesn’t complete the job as agreed.

13. Hold Back Final Payment Until Satisfied.
Don’t release the final payment until you are completely happy with the finished work.

By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to choose a remodeling contractor who meets your needs and delivers quality results.