Ten Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor
Best Rate Remodel / January 15th, 2014
Don’t choose a contractor until you’ve asked these ten questions.
Choosing a remodeling contractor is a big decision that will impact your wallet and the quality of your home life. A lot depends on the remodeling contractor you choose, which is why you should take your time and do your due diligence before making a choice. Effectively comparing different contractors is about much more than price. You want to make sure your contractor will listen to your needs and deliver a quality remodel in a professional and efficient manner. Here is a short list of ten questions you should ask every contractor you are considering for your remodel job. The answers will help you effectively compare contractors and see beyond just a price point:
1. Have you worked on a project like this before?
It’s important to know if your contractor has any experience working on project similar to what you are seeking for your home. Each type of remodel has different challenges and requires a certain level of expertise. For instance, a kitchen remodel could require electrical re-wiring, re-piping and a build out. If you choose a handyman who has only ever laid tile, your contractor is going to be way in over his or her head!
2. Can I speak with previous clients?
Remodeling companies have no problems singing their own praises, but the real truth will come from the customers they’ve worked with. Any contractor bidding for our project should be willing to give you the contact information of one or more previous clients. When you reach out to the client, ask them about their experience working with the contractor and how they feel about the result of their remodel.
3. Can you break down your price quote?
Every contractor prices jobs differently, which can make it challenging for a consumer to effectively compare quotes. Some contractors also like to hide or roll up charges to make them less obvious. Ask a potential contractor to break down the pricing so you understand exactly where all your money is going and so you can better compare different quotes.
4. How long will this project take?
A remodeling contractor should be able to give you a basic timeline for your project. If not, then ask. The larger your project, the less certain the timeline will be, since there is a higher probability of unforeseen issues.
5. Can you walk me through the stages of the project?
As a homeowner you have the right to understand what the contractor will be doing to your home. That doesn’t mean you need to know the nitty gritty of how to mix plaster, but your contractor should be comfortable breaking down the stages of the remodel.
6. When will you be able to start?
Your remodeler should be able to give you a timeline for your project, but that doesn’t mean much if they are booked solid for the next six months. Make sure you understand when a contractor is actually available for a job so that you aren’t unexpectedly caught at the bottom of a long wait list. (Note: It’s a good thing if your contractor is booked for work; you just need to have a clear idea of when you can expect work to begin).
7. Who will be managing my project?
Larger remodeling agencies usually employ project managers who oversee a client’s project. In some cases, this is not the same person who you speak with initially when discussing your project and seeking a quote. Make sure you know who will be your main contact on the project. You want to feel comfortable with this person so that you can communicate effectively.
8. How do you communicate during a job?
Homeowners need to make sure that the lines of communication will remain open after the work begins on their remodel so that they can stay in the loop, ask questions and provide feedback. Ask the contractor how they communicate with clients during the work. For instance, are meetings scheduled, can clients call or email, etc.?
9. Are you insured and licensed?
You should never work with a remodeling contractor who is not a licensed remodeler and/or does not carry insurance. Not only is it illegal to work with an unlicensed and uninsured company, but you could end up with big problems. An unlicensed contractor may not have the knowledge and skills to perform the remodel you want. Also, if an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you may end up with the hospital bill!
10. What happens if I am unhappy?
There are no guarantees in the remodeling industry, but your contractor should have some policy in place to address concerns or complaints. The most important thing you want to hear is that your contractor is willing to listen to your concerns and help you find a solution.
I hope this list of questions to ask a remodeler will be helpful to you as you seek out a skilled remodeling company for your next remodel. If you live in San Diego or Orange County, give Best-Rate Remodel a call at (619) 229-0116, and we’d be happy to answer these questions for your remodel.