1: RELIABILITY IS NUMBER ONE.
If your state requires a contractor's license, make sure he has one. Additionally, he should have been in business for 5 years or more, carry workmen's compensation and general liability insurance (get copies of the policies). Finally, make sure he doesn't need your check to pay this month's bills.
2: WORKMANSHIP.
Referrals are the best way to choose. If that isn't a possibility, ask for references. The only way to judge the quality of his work is through on-site inspection. If you can see first hand some of his previous jobs that would be great. If not, most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work.
3: TEAMWORK AND TRUST.
There are two ways to go. If you want to leave the details to an expert, then hire one whose decisions you trust. If you want to be involved in every decision, then hire a contractor who is comfortable with close supervision. The best contractor you can hire is one that cares as much as you do. They do exist.
4: GET THE BIDS.
To get comparable bids for your project, write out the specifications, including sample building materials and fixtures and give 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. Hire a designer to create project specifications, if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.
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.
The most successful projects are one where you have not walked away. Even the best contractor needs a watchful eye. Pay by check to company, 30% being a reasonable down payment upon delivery of materials. Make final payments only when the work is completed to your satisfaction. - 15252
If your state requires a contractor's license, make sure he has one. Additionally, he should have been in business for 5 years or more, carry workmen's compensation and general liability insurance (get copies of the policies). Finally, make sure he doesn't need your check to pay this month's bills.
2: WORKMANSHIP.
Referrals are the best way to choose. If that isn't a possibility, ask for references. The only way to judge the quality of his work is through on-site inspection. If you can see first hand some of his previous jobs that would be great. If not, most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work.
3: TEAMWORK AND TRUST.
There are two ways to go. If you want to leave the details to an expert, then hire one whose decisions you trust. If you want to be involved in every decision, then hire a contractor who is comfortable with close supervision. The best contractor you can hire is one that cares as much as you do. They do exist.
4: GET THE BIDS.
To get comparable bids for your project, write out the specifications, including sample building materials and fixtures and give 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. Hire a designer to create project specifications, if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.
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.
The most successful projects are one where you have not walked away. Even the best contractor needs a watchful eye. Pay by check to company, 30% being a reasonable down payment upon delivery of materials. Make final payments only when the work is completed to your satisfaction. - 15252
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher is a well known expert in the Home Improvement, 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 and manufacturers at the click of a mouse, as well as, several informative "6 Things To Know Before You Buy..." articles.
