Choosing the right contractor for your home remodeling project is an important decision. Using recommendations from friends and family is a great way to start the process.
Calling past customers to get feedback is also a good idea. Be sure to ask how the projects were executed and whether the contractors met or exceeded expectations.
Ask for Recommendations
Homeowners who are considering a remodeling project can often find contractors through recommendations from friends and family. They can also ask for referrals from building inspectors, who will know which home renovation contractors routinely meet code requirements. They can also check online for complaints against the contractor and look up any special certifications, like CGR through the National Association of Remodeling Industry or LEED through the U.S. Green Building Council, says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva.
Once you have a short list of contractors to consider, ask them to visit your home and walk through the project. This serves two purposes: It helps the contractor understand your goals and it’s an opportunity for you to see if their personality and work process mesh well with yours.
Check Out Their Portfolio
When narrowing down the list of potential contractors, ask each for a portfolio of work. It should include photos of the space before the remodel, photos during the remodeling and photos after the remodel. Avoid a contractor that has only a few projects or whose work looks subpar.
Home remodeling and renovation are about much more than just changing the appearance of a house or addressing issues with its structure. It’s about making the house fit your lifestyle and make it more comfortable for your family.
Choosing a general contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make for your home. It’s important to do your homework, call references, check licenses and visit finished projects in New York. It’s worth the effort!
Get Bids
As you narrow down your options, it’s important to have a firm idea of how much you’re willing and able to spend. This information will give contractors a clear set of parameters within which to create their bids.
It’s also a good idea to get three bids from different remodeling contractors. Any fewer, and you might not be comparing apples to apples. And any more, and you could end up wasting your time (and theirs).
Ask for References
Home remodeling can be a hair-pulling, migraine-inducing nightmare if you work with the wrong contractor. But with the right one, you can turn your home into your dream home without losing your mind.
You should ask each potential contractor for references from previous customers. Call them to find out how their projects went, including whether they completed the job on time and within budget.
Also, talk to a local building inspector who may know which contractors routinely meet code requirements. And visit your local lumberyard to see which contractors buy their materials and pay their bills on time. That’s an important sign of reliability and professionalism. Lastly, check each contractor’s licenses and certifications. Legal requirements vary by state. Narrow your list to the contractors with the best credentials and meet with them for bids.
Do Your Homework
Choosing the right contractor for your home remodel is an important decision. Take your time and do your research. Examine portfolios of work, check licensing, listen to referrals and gather competitive bids before making your final choice.
Consider visiting a construction site in your neighborhood to observe how the contractors manage the project. This will give you a feel for the contractor’s level of professionalism, says Angi.
A punctilious remodeling contractor will provide an itemized bid that breaks down the cost of labor, materials and profit margins, Carnegie Mellon University explains. Then, you can compare the estimates and choose one that is within your budget. Also, meet with your insurance agent to discuss how the remodel may affect your homeowners’ policy. This step will ensure your project is properly covered if there are any unforeseen obstacles that occur during the renovation process.