10 Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Home Remodeling Contractor

Hiring a remodeling contractor for your next home remodeling project is a big decision. In addition to price, there are many other considerations before you decide whom to use for your project.

New construction housing and remodeling are different trades. Many remodeling contractors can build a new home. However, few new home builders are qualified to do complex remodeling projects. Asking the following questions can save you headache, time, and money.

Can I See Your Portfolio?

Looking at a builder’s portfolio will tell you if the builder is capable of working on a project of your caliber. If a builder is used to doing kitchen remodels with laminate countertops, and you envision a kitchen with book-matched Carrara marble countertops, then it would be important to make sure that the builder is comfortable with the materials and quality your project will require.

Most builders have digital portfolios on their website, as well as a Houzz.com account. This allows you to view past work as well as get inspiration from other builders around the country.

Can I See a Copy of Your Contract?

A contract is a legally binding agreement between two parties. It is important to read the contract and understand what the obligations of both parties are. The contract should state how long the project should take, what is included, spell out any allowances for materials to be selected by the homeowner and include information on the builder’s warranty.

Are You a Member of a Trade Organization?

Membership to a trade organization shows the builder cares enough to spend the money to be a member. Additionally, most reputable trade organizations ensure all members’ licensing and insurance is up to date. Finally, many trade organizations offer discounts to members though buying co-ops. These save clients money, offer continuing education opportunities and mediation if a problem arises during your project.

Do You Have a License and Insurance?

While being licensed and insured (including workers’ compensation) might seem like it should be a given, some contractors do not follow the rules. It would be a red flag if the home remodeling contractor asks you to pull the permit or if they can not produce a proof of insurance.

How Long Will My Project Take?

Having a defined start and end date are essential to a successful project. There are consumer protection laws in many states governing project durations. You should expect any professional to give you a details schedule in a paper or PDF form. This schedule should have the major dates, draws and substantial completion date.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

While we all start somewhere, selecting a home remodeling contractor who has been in business for a long time should provide some assurance that your prepayments are safe, they have a track record of success through positive reviews and that the builder will be around should you need to use your warranty.

Will I Have a Dedicated Project Manager?

Reliability and consistency are the keys to success in life, and remodeling is no different. Ensuring that there is a project manager who is your point of contact, and that he will be on your project every day is very important.

Some contractors have a reputation for jumping from job to job in order to take on more work or for financial reasons. Asking your contractor about when to expect their firm on your job will set expectations before the job starts.

What Is the Best Way to Contact You, And Do You Use Any Technology to Track Job Progress?

Construction is one of the oldest professions, and many firms have not embraced technology. We have found that clients who hire a builder with a robust project management software are happier. These software packages allow customers to see pictures of their project, make sure all communications are in a centralized location, track the schedule and understand when selections need to be made.

What Steps Will You Take to Protect My Home During the Project?

If you are remodeling your home and the renovation is confined to part of your home, it is important to ask how your remodeling contractor is going to segregate that part of the house and protect the part not encompassed by the project.

At minimum, contractors should be using HEPA air scrubbers during demo, always be using HEPA vacuums for daily cleanup, using ZipWalls to isolate dust, and protect flooring with a product like Ram Board^®. A remodel should not destroy the rest of your house.

Is There Somewhere Where I Can Look At Your References?

Most contractors will have their references online, but if your builder does not have an online presence, you should cautiously ask for phone numbers of past clients. No builder is going to give you the number for someone who would give them a bad review, so online reviews are best. We suggest checking Google, Houzz, Angie’s List, and Yelp. Recommendations from friends, community Facebook groups, and looking for that builder’s sign in your neighborhood are the best references.

Maintain Good Communication with Your Contractor

Construction can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Hiring the right home remodeling contractor can alleviate much of the stress and ensure your project goes as smoothly as possible. If you have a kitchen remodel, bathroom project or addition, please contact us at LaBonte Construction for a quote.