It’s Easy To Find The Right General Contractor For Your Project
You’re ready to renovate and you know you need a General Contractor, but how do you find the best one for you? With a little work, you’re sure to find someone who’s just right for the project you have planned. By taking a methodical approach to the hiring process, you can avoid those nightmare tales of construction you’ve heard about.
Before you start looking for the right company to update your home, take a trip down to your local planning department. You can speak to a professional there about the requirements you’re going to have during your project. They can let you know what plans or surveys you’ll need and what kind of permits will be necessary. They may also tell you of specific companies with numerous successful inspections in your area.
When looking for a construction company to hire, start with word of mouth referrals. Someone you know is most likely to give you an accurate account of their experience. Check with the Better Business Bureau, local Chamber of Commerce, or Associations. There are websites devoted to construction referrals as well, and might provide more information than the yellow pages.
Once you’ve compiled a list of potential companies, do a little research. The most important verification is the license. Most state licensing boards have a website where you can look up license, bonding, address, years in business and complaint information. Based on this, check with the firms to find out about liability and disability insurances.
Make appointments to review the work with several potential bidders. Verify that the companies you are hoping to work with are the ones showing up by requesting a photo ID and the contractor’s license. Provide a detailed list of all the work to be done and request written quotes and contracts from each. This will ensure the bids include the same work. Make sure to request that the contract include a projected payment schedule and completion time line.
While reviewing the bids, remember most state boards recommend avoiding a bid that is significantly lower than the others as this could be a sign of a problem with the company. Review any workmanship guarantees, as this might make a seemingly higher quote much more valuable. Make sure the bids are inclusive of all the work you want done as well. This will prevent an unwanted cost increase later.
You’ve picked one reputable company and signed the contract. Because you have a schedule and a guarantee, rest easy knowing the general contractor will protect the company name by ensuring the contract is upheld. Enjoy your new renovations.
