5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Improvement Contractor
Whether you want to upgrade your windows, replace your siding, or install boards on a new house, hiring someone who can deliver the job as expected is vital. However, because many contractors are available in the market, choosing the best one for you might be challenging.
Knowing what to look for when evaluating your choices helps you choose the right contractor. This article highlights some essential questions you should ask when interviewing different construction contractors.
1. How Long Have You Worked in Construction?
This question helps you know how much experience a contractor has. While experience does not automatically translate to good quality work, it increases your chances of hiring a skilled contractor.
A contractor with extensive experience has likely handled several similar jobs. They know which challenges they may encounter while undertaking your project and usually have several solutions in mind. An experienced contractor also knows how to pick high-quality materials for your project.
2. Can You Provide References and a Portfolio?
References allow you to get firsthand information on a contractor's work quality. Contractors should provide the contact details of people they have worked for. Even if a contractor is relatively new in the business, they should have a list of references if they offer high-quality services.
Once you get the references, contact all of them to inquire about their experience with the contractor. Some questions to ask a contractor's former clients include:
- What type of remodeling work did the contractor do?
- Were you satisfied with how the project turned out?
- What did you like most about working with this contractor?
- Is there anything you did not like about the contractor?
- Would you recommend this contractor to anyone else?
3. What Are Your Service Rates?
When talking to contractors about the work you need on your home, you probably have a budget in mind. Your budget should also inform your choice of contractor. After asking different contractors about their prices, compare their rates to get an average.
Do not just go for the lowest bid. However, that does not mean you should hire the priciest contractor you can find. Consider the level of experience, expertise, and services to determine whether a contractor's rates are fair.
Finally, when getting service rate information, ensure a contractor provides you with an itemized list of their charges. This list helps you verify that you have no hidden prices.
4. Can You Provide Proof of Licensure?
States have different licensing requirements for contractors. In some states, licenses are not compulsory for contractors specializing in home improvements. But, if your state requires licenses for contractors, you could get into a lot of trouble for working with an unlicensed contractor.
Even if licenses are not compulsory in your state, working with a licensed contractor is best because they adhere to specific criteria to prove their competency. A copy of a contractor's license is adequate proof of licensure. You can also search the company on sites that list licensed contractors.
5. Are You Insured?
The right answer to this question is yes. Working with an insured contractor protects you from liability in case an accident happens as they work in your home. However, because someone can lie about having insurance, always ask for proof. A copy of a contractor's insurance policy should suffice.
Every home needs an upgrade once in a while. But, if you choose the wrong company to work with, you may not like the results of your home improvement project. The best contractor should be licensed and insured and charge a fair price based on their experience.
If you want to upgrade your gutters, siding, windows, trim, or deck, Kelly's Construction, Inc, is the contractor for you. Contact us today for your home improvement project.
