Finding the Right Contractor

You've been seeing the signs all over town - it's construction season, after all! If you're wondering how to pull the trigger on your own renovation project, but don't know where to start 1) begin by asking friends, family, and colleagues if they know any reputable contractors in the area. More often than not, this is your golden ticket to satisfaction with the contractor you hire. 2) Search your city’s business directory. For example, the City of Decatur only lists legitimate, reputable businesses on its website. 3) Keep an eye out for jobsite signs. If you see several of the same signs throughout your neighborhood, the company probably has happy clients and is doing well.

Your decision to hire a contractor is the most important one you'll make in the renovation process. Now, that you've selected a few to interview, be sure to ask:

1. How long have you been in business?  A long history often indicates stability - and more than likely - expertise and a strong reputation.

2. May I speak to someone at your bank?  Before you start writing checks, contact the contractor's bank to make sure the firm is financially stable.

3. May I visit two sites you're currently working on? You want to make sure the contractor is taking care of clients’ homes as if they were his or her own. Look out for: dust control, safety precautions, and the protection of the homeowners’ belongings.

4. What is the geographic area that you serve? Consider the contractor's work area. With too much ground to cover, will he or she be able to meet your needs? If something unexpected occurs, will your team be able to respond in a reasonable amount of time?

5. What is your company’s area(s) of specialization? Be specific when talking about your wants and needs. Are you looking for a turnkey design-build solution? Do you have a historic home that would benefit from a contractor with historical approval experience?  Are you interested in environmentally-friendly options?

6.  How early will work start, and what time will workers leave each day? This is especially important if you work at home or have small children. Make sure the contractor can work within your schedule.

7. Will you guarantee the completion date in writing?  To prevent your project from dragging on, your contract should clearly indicate your project’s completion date.

8. Can I be listed as a “certificate holder” on your insurance policy? As a certificate holder, you’ll be issued a copy of the contractor’s certificate of insurance and should be notified of any policy cancellations.

9. Will you provide me with lien releases ? Lien releases should be signed by all trade partners working on your project (once the job is completed), preventing them from putting a lien on your home. Your contractor should give these to you at the end of your project.

10. Can I see a copy of one of your contracts? The construction contract should be as detailed as possible, outlining the project’s scope and finishes, along with a fixed price and guaranteed completion date.

Keep in mind that remodeling can be an emotional process, so it's very important to hire a team that understands your wants, needs, and vision.

Decatur's Renewal Design-Build guides homeowners throughout the entire renovation process. Renovation is a puzzle. Renewal puts the pieces together. RenewalDesignBuild.com