If you're trying to remodel your property, whether it's landscaping or work on your actual home, such as roofing, a good route to take is to hire a contractor. However, with a vast sea of contractors out there, it can be difficult to differentiate the contenders from the pretenders. Northface Construction recommends asking these 5 essential questions before you hire a contractor for your home remodel.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
It goes without saying that you'll feel a lot more confident in a contractor working on your home that has had a substantial amount of experience in working with home remodels and builds. More experienced contractors have, for the most part, went through all the mistakes that less experienced contractors have yet to do. In other words, they've learned from past mishaps and know how to avoid them.
That doesn't necessarily mean you should always choose a contractor who has performed the most remodels. Another aspect you should consider is their past work, and you should ask if you can see any before and after pictures of past projects. Perhaps a younger, less experienced contractor may have the vision and style that pairs well with your own, which will make it easier for you two to work together to create the home of your dreams.
Do You Have a Contracting License?
Cities, states and counties can all have different requirements when it comes to whether contractors have to have any type of credential or licence. It's important that you do the necessary due diligence to ensure that your potential contractor has obtained the required certifications that they need for their area of business.
You can verify that contractor is properly licensed using this resource.
What is Your Timeline For Completion?
While a contractor's response to this question is simply and estimation, as many things may occur during a project that can slow down, or even speed up the process, it is still nice to get an idea on when they'll be completed. Some additional follow up questions are: "Do you have any other projects that may conflict with my home's project timeline?" and, "How will alterations or changes in the timeline be addressed?"
What is Your Warranty?
Any home remodeling project is going to cost a sizeable chunk of change. Because of this, it is wise to ask contractors what their warranty policy is or if they offer a guarantee on their work, as well as how long it'll remain in effect. Even the materials used in your home should have a manufacturer's warranty, so ask about that in advance as well.
What is Your Payment Schedule?
It is highly recommended that you never pay for the full price of any contracting work upfront. In fact, a red flag is if a contractor asks you to do so. Once you make sure that they don't expect that from you, then make sure you discuss their payment terms before they begin any work on your home or property. Whether it is a pay as you go, or specific dates are outlined for a certain percentage, make sure that it is fair and that you are able to make each payment.
Good Luck in Your Search
For the most, contractors are easy to work with, respectful of their client's and the homes they work in, and do a great job. They wouldn't still be in business otherwise. So, when it comes to making sure that you find the right person for the job, don't sweat too much about making the wrong choice. As long as you ask these 5 questions, and receive the answers you want, you'll be in good hands!
