How to Hire the Right Contractor For Your Next Project
Updated: Mar 24
As you plan your next home improvement project, choosing the right contractor for the job is essential. You want to make sure you are receiving quality work, within the timeline, scope, and budget you have in mind. When making such a large investment, it's understandable to
To help with this, we've put together a checklist with our top tips to consider when choosing a contractor:
Due Diligence
When finding the right contractor, it never hurts to conduct your own research. You can start by checking third-party online reviews, but remember to check and verify that they are an actual customer.
Another way to verify whether or not you're making the right choice is by checking your contractor's Better Business Bureau (BBB.org) profile. Be sure to note any positive or negative feedback filed on their page. One thing to note, if there are more complaints than positive feedback, then be sure to stay away . . . far away from that contractor. It's not worth the headache down the road. Repairing another contractor's work is more costly rather than getting it done right in the first place.
When all else fails, asking the opinions of family and friends might lead you to a perfect match!
Ask For Credentials
When selecting a contractor, there is a lot that you should verify before signing any paperwork. For example, if you are looking for a remodel of your attic or crawlspace, you want to ensure that your contractor has specialized experience in those areas. At the end of the day, you want to hire someone with the experience and necessary permits and licenses to complete the job.
Make Sure Your Contractor is Licensed and Insured
As we said before, it's essential to make sure that your contractor's license and insurance are up-to-date. It's important to make sure both you and your contractor are protected in case of accidents or mishaps while at work. Licensing and certification requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to check with your area’s licensing laws to ensure your contractor is licensed and up-to-date on all necessary verifications.
Come Prepared with Questions
Hiring a contractor to work on your house isn't a decision that should be taken lightly. Getting the job done right (the first time) will save money on future repairs and keeps everyone involved safe.
Before hiring, don't be afraid to ask your contractor any questions to help prove that they are the right fit for you. Here are some of our recommendations:
Does the service contract provide information on any warranties/guarantees?
What is their level of expertise?
Can they provide an itemized quote?
Have they completed similar projects before?
Are they subcontracting the project or a portion thereof?
How long has the company been in business?
Do they have any serious complaints filed against them?
Not every renovation is created equal, which is why we recommend consulting with a seasoned professional to assess your home before starting. If you have any questions regarding upgrades to your crawlspace, basement, or attic, reach out to our team at Crawlspace Solutions today! Our team of qualified inspectors can provide you with advice and peace of mind while saving you time and money by properly encapsulating your home.