| Home | Here are some great tips from Lowes on choosing a good contractor to work at your home!
Choosing a Contractor
When the time comes to choose a contractor, how will you distinguish between a certified, experienced contractor and a corner-cutting swindler? A little research and some probing questions can help you make the right decision and save you time and money.
Lowe's is happy to provide this information as a service to you.
Locating Potential Contractors
Planning is the foundation for a successful remodeling or building job. Specific, detailed plans allow the contractor to more accurately estimate the cost and length of time involved. Decide what type of work needs to be done and what type of contractor or subcontractor is required. For instance, if remodeling your bathroom includes moving the bathtub or toilet, you'll need a plumber and a general contractor.
Choosing a contractor requires time, patience and instinct. A good contractor appreciates an informed customer; so educate yourself on the project and the expertise required to complete the job. Start at your local library or on the Internet. After researching your project, check the yellow pages to find a contractor or get referrals from acquaintances that have had similar remodeling jobs done. A professional contractor usually advertises and waits for customers to call. Always be cautious if someone comes to your door looking for work. Once you've narrowed your search:
- Call at least three contractors and set up appointments to go over a few basic questions.
- When you talk to a contractor, clearly communicate your ideas. Ask questions and listen to the responses given. Effective communication is extremely important for a customer/contractor relationship.
- Always give each contractor the same information regarding the project.
Initial Steps
When interviewing a contractor, ask:- Are you a licensed contractor in this state and city? Check to see if your state requires a license. Some states accept work experience, membership in professional trade organizations, and continuing education units in place of a license. If the contractor has a license, get the license number, and call the local building department to validate the number. Also, call the State Consumer Protection Agency to find out if the contractor had to prove financial stability, pass an exam, or just pay a fee for the license.
- Can I have three references from customers in the past 12 months? Past three years? Use references to check the contractor's current and past work history.
- Can I have a banking and/or financial reference? Check financial stability. If the contractor is unable to pay for materials, labor, and overhead costs, the job could go unfinished.
- What professional/trade organizations are you are a member of? Check membership standing in the organization provided.
- What insurance coverage do you have? At a minimum, contractors should have Workman's Compensation, general liability (including property and personal liability), and automobile insurance. These policies help protect you and your property from potential legal problems should an accident occur. Call the insurance agency to confirm effective dates of the insurance policies.
When a contractor starts a job, it's good practice to have a valid certificate of insurance naming you and your property as co-insured. Have the contractor contact his insurance agency and request that a copy be mailed directly to you. Do not accept a photocopy.
- How long have you been in business? A contractor with at least five years experience usually has a stable business foundation and is reliable.
- Have you taken any classes or attended any trade seminars in the past 2 years? Industry trade shows, seminars, and classes help a contractor stay on top of the latest solutions and techniques for remodeling and building. Courses centered on managing a business successfully are also important.
- Based on the project detail, what permits may be required? The contractor should be familiar with local building code requirements.
- May I have an itemized estimate on the project that includes materials, labor, overhead, and a time frame? The estimate should be in writing in order to compare it with the estimates you receive from the other two contractors.
- Do you have a "before and after" picture portfolio? Most contractors have pictures of past work.
Click here for Page 2 "Tips for Choosing a Good Contractor |
