What to look for in hiring a Home Improvement Contractor
What to look for in hiring a Home Improvement Contractor
Since I was asked in my first TV interview for advice on what to look for in hiring a home improvement contractor, I though I would start this Blog with that advice.
What to look for in the County of Rockland
*Make sure the contractor is licensed and that the license covers the classification the project calls for. The first place to start is by calling the Office of Consumer Protection @ 845-708-7610 or visit their web site at:
http://www.co.rockland.ny.us/cpl/default.htm
Check and see if the contractor's license is up to date. Also, see if there have been complaints lodged against them.
*Make sure that their insurance certificates are up to date. Collect the certificates and make sure you and the address where the work will take place are documented as the certificate holder.
* Get at least three quotes and REVIEW them in detail to see what is included. Do not fall into the trap of looking at the bottom line as we are all guilty of from time to time. Some contractors may have allowances for items and include cost for unforeseen problems. Compare apples to apples. DO NOT be enticed by the lowest bid. Legitimate contractors have the experience, proper insurances, quality crews and good subs that translates in higher overhead, resulting in higher costs for the work. The trade off is a higher quality job, and in case something goes wrong the proper insurance to cover you and your property.
* Get referrals and check references. Talk with friends and family members who have had work done. Check local associations like www.RCBRA.org or www.REDC.org or your local building dept, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce.
*Make sure the contract you sign has specific details to the types of materials being used, the scope of work, favorable terms and conditions, start date, costs and payment schedule, approximate time of work completion, hours of operation, work site inspections, walk throughs, guarantees.
* Keep in mind that you are buying a service as well as a project. How is the contractor's management skill and style, business relations with vendors and community, attention to detail, expertise on construction practices.
*When you have finished your research and selected a contractor, it is always good policy to notify the other contractors who took time to work with you through the estimating process.
* If it is a large job ask to meet the supervisor or crew. They may be around for a long time, so it may be good to get an introduction. This is a good time to review job site policy as to children, pets near the job site, clean up policy, walk throughs, start times, parking, access to home and bathroom, neighbor notices.
An excellent resource is the http://www.rcbra.org/ There is a detailed PDF of the information bulleted above as well as other helpful links.
Hope this information helps and good luck with your project!
