1: HE MUST BE RELIABLE.
If your state requires a contractor's license, make sure he has one. Additionally, he should have been in business for 5 years or more, carry workmen's compensation and general liability insurance (get copies of the policies). Finally, make sure he doesn't need your check to pay this month's bills.
2: WORKMANSHIP.
Most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work. The only way to judge workmanship is through on-site inspection. Ask for names of recent clients and arrange to examine projects similar to yours from recent and older jobs.
3: TEAMWORK AND TRUST.
The best contractors care as much as you do. If you want to be involved in every single decision, then find one that doesn't mind close supervision. If you want to leave the details to an expert, find a contractor whose decisions you will trust.
4: BIDS.
Get bids. Three would be best. To get comparable bids for your project, write out the specifications, including sample building materials and fixtures and give copy to each contractor submitting a bid. The more detailed the specifications, the easier it will be to compare bids because all should use same materials in their cost breakdowns. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a designer to create project specifications. You will save money and aggravation in the long run.
5: CHECK PRICES.
Double check the prices of the contractors, requesting a cost breakdown sheet. This should include expenses (including building permits and subcontractor bids), materials, fixtures, and labor. Do not forget to get a timetable
6: STAY WITH IT.
The most successful projects are one where you have not walked away. Even the best contractor needs a watchful eye. Pay by check to company, 30% being a reasonable down payment upon delivery of materials. Make final payments only when the work is completed to your satisfaction. - 16738
If your state requires a contractor's license, make sure he has one. Additionally, he should have been in business for 5 years or more, carry workmen's compensation and general liability insurance (get copies of the policies). Finally, make sure he doesn't need your check to pay this month's bills.
2: WORKMANSHIP.
Most contractors carry photo books to show samples of their work. The only way to judge workmanship is through on-site inspection. Ask for names of recent clients and arrange to examine projects similar to yours from recent and older jobs.
3: TEAMWORK AND TRUST.
The best contractors care as much as you do. If you want to be involved in every single decision, then find one that doesn't mind close supervision. If you want to leave the details to an expert, find a contractor whose decisions you will trust.
4: BIDS.
Get bids. Three would be best. To get comparable bids for your project, write out the specifications, including sample building materials and fixtures and give copy to each contractor submitting a bid. The more detailed the specifications, the easier it will be to compare bids because all should use same materials in their cost breakdowns. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a designer to create project specifications. You will save money and aggravation in the long run.
5: CHECK PRICES.
Double check the prices of the contractors, requesting a cost breakdown sheet. This should include expenses (including building permits and subcontractor bids), materials, fixtures, and labor. Do not forget to get a timetable
6: STAY WITH IT.
The most successful projects are one where you have not walked away. Even the best contractor needs a watchful eye. Pay by check to company, 30% being a reasonable down payment upon delivery of materials. Make final payments only when the work is completed to your satisfaction. - 16738
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher has spent several years advising in the Home Remodeling , Building and Interior Decorating Fields. Before you buy any big purchases for your home, check out the Home Remodeling Portal where you will quickly find all the information you need at the click of a mouse, in addition to several "6 Things To Know Before Your Buy..." articles.
