What To Look For In A Contractor

Choosing the correct contractor for a job is an important first step in the planning phase. You are going to want to be sure you scrutinize the quality of their work in advance, detail in writing what work you want carried out and agree upon the degree of the project and ask if the contractor is appropriately insured and licensed in case something goes awry.

10 Tips When Choosing a Contractor

The following checklist are the top 10 tips to think about when choosing a contractor:

1. Get Several Estimates

Speak with multiple contractors and get written estimates from at a minimum three. Be sure you’re comparing apples to apples when getting several estimates. Examine building materials, work methods, schedules and other aspects that may differ by contractor. Be wary of estimates that are out of budget or inadequate.

2. Hire Local, Licensed Contractors When Possible

Local contractors are more convenient to get a hold of if problems come up with the work down the road, and they are likely to be more familiar with local building codes. Ask the contractor for their local, tangible address. Be suspect of anyone that goes knocking on doors or declines to leave a contract overnight.

3. Check Their Past Work

How has their work turned out in the past? Do they specialize in the type of work you wish to have done? Verify references concerning the quality of their products, their craftsmanship and their customer care. Ask about their professional stature and the time they’ve been in business with the BBB. A contractor that has more than 5 years of experience is preferred.

4. Take Your Time Making a Sound Decision

Get several bids prior to deciding. Don’t be coerced into making an instant decision, specifically regarding signing a contract. Be wary when asked to pay a significant up-front deposit. Be sure to go over the fine print on every estimate and contract. When you are having emergency repairs carried out and don’t have the time to comprehensively research a contractor, ask friends, neighbors, or family to find out if they have had a pleasant experience with an emergency service contractor.

5. Check Their Insurance and Bonding

Be sure they are appropriately bonded and insured. Ask them for their certificate of insurance (COI), which is going to give the name of the insurance company, the contractors’ policy number and policy restrictions the contractor carries. You can get a hold of the insurance company directly to confirm the coverage and make sure the policy is still effective. Do not go into business with a contractor that does not carry the correct insurance coverage. If the contractor is uninsured, you could be liable for accidents that happen on your property.

6. Get Everything in Writing

Secure a thorough contract prior to work beginning. Get everything in writing and be sure the contract is clear and written well. Consider having a lawyer go over the proposed contract for your protection prior to you signing it if the project involves significant costs. The contract needs to include:

7. Understand Your Right to Cancel

Federal law might require a “cooling off” period, in which you can cancel the contract without facing penalties. Check with the FTC and the laws in your state to understand what rights you have. Make sure to adhere to applicable rules throughout the cooling off period. If you do decide to cancel, think about sending the notice of cancellation by certified mail to guarantee you have evidence of the cancellation.

8. Don’t Pay Upfront

Don’t pay for the whole project prior to it being completed. Be sure to make checks payable to companies, not individuals, and do not pay with cash. For mor significant projects, it is an established practice to pay 1/3 of the estimated costs as a down payment. This way, you can keep your cashed check as proof of payment.

9. Expect Delays

Delays happen and might not be the fault of your contractor. In regard to the timeline outlined in your contract, situations like weather might prevent the work from staying on schedule. Be reasonable and prepare to change your plans accordingly.

10. Retain A Job File

Retain your contract and all the supporting documentation in a single folder. Your file should also include any change orders, plans and specifics, bills and invoices, canceled checks, and certificates of insurance and any notes, letters, or communication with the contractor.

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