Tips For Hiring a General Contractor
Hiring a general contractor is a big decision that should be approached with care. You want a person who is skilled, experienced, trustworthy and professional to oversee your project. Without this level of expertise, your remodeling project may go off the rails.
You need a general contractor to coordinate the various tasks needed for your home renovation, including hiring and scheduling subcontractors, sourcing materials, obtaining permits and managing budgets. A general contractor can also make recommendations on design and layout.
The first step in finding a good general contractor is to identify your needs. Do you need a simple remodel or do you want to completely renovate your home?
Once you know your needs, start by looking at local listings and referrals. Look for contractors who are familiar with your neighborhood, and check references and past projects.
Call a handful of potential candidates, and schedule meetings with them in person. Talking to candidates in person allows you to get a better sense of their personality, work ethic and overall character.
Interviewing a general contractor is a time-consuming process, but it can be well worth the effort to find someone who will make your remodeling project run smoothly. It can also be a crucial part of avoiding costly disputes down the road.
Beware of unscrupulous contractors who approach you after a major disaster to offer quick, inexpensive repairs. Similarly, never pay for the whole job in advance; they are unlikely to complete your entire project as planned.
Getting price quotes from several different general contractors is a smart way to determine who offers the best value for your dollar. Ask each contractor for a detailed proposal and then make a decision on the one that offers the best value in terms of quality, cost, and timeliness.
You can also use online reviews and ratings sites, like Angie’s List and Houzz, to see what past clients have said about their experience with the general contractor in question. You’ll also want to check out the license and insurance of a potential contractor.
A good general contractor should be licensed, insured and have a reputation for professionalism and integrity. They should have a high degree of experience, and they should be honest with you about their pricing, as well as their ability to deliver on their promises.
Your contractor should be knowledgeable about the building code, building materials and construction methods in your area. They should also have a good understanding of how to manage a team of subcontractors and other professionals who will be on the job at any given time.
If you have any questions about the contract or your rights, ask your contractor to explain them in a clear and understandable manner. This will help you avoid disputes down the road and will ensure your contractor is able to meet your expectations.
A good general contractor will work with you to craft a budget that is realistic for the scope of the project, and they should be flexible enough to adapt to changes. They should also be willing to be honest with you about any possible unforeseen expenses that might occur during the project.