This is the article to read if you are looking for some great advice on your next home improvement project! Not only will we discuss tips on choosing a contractor we will throw in some advice on keeping you both communicating throughout.
Be able to articulate exactly what you want:
Being able to articulate your expectations is the most important aspects of any renovation. Before meeting with a contractor, it is crucial that you know exactly what you want. Spend time considering your end goals for the project at hand. Consider how this project flows into future renovations. Take time to layout a visual representation of what you expect the renovation should look like, the different amenities you desire, your needs vs your wants, etc. If you can’t explain your goals into specifics, then a contractor won’t be able to translate this into a design.
Take time when interviewing contractors:
It is important to have a clear understand of what you are getting when you hire a contractor. You should get at least three bids before choosing a contractor, upwards of six is even better as it gives you a clearer picture of what you can expect. It also allows you to compare services: a six grand from one contractor may get you half of what another contractor is offering. This will give you a clear perspective on material costs as well as the rates between contractors. Make sure that all bids are measured equally. Not all contracts include materials and labor. When choosing a contractor make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
Complete background checks before signing a contract:
No matter who recommends the contractor, even if they used them in the past, it is important to do some basic background checks on the contractors’ credentials. Not only should you know the company’s full name and address it is important to have copies of both the company’s liability & workers compensation policy’s along with a current state license. Verify that they are up to date. This is also the time to investigate complaints and legal actions that are pending or have been previously resolved.
Look into a contractor’s past work:
Not all contractors are created equally there are those that specialize and those that perform more general labor. When hiring a large company, such as Kearns Brothers, you get both however this is not the case in all situations. Before you hire an individual contractor, you must understand what they can and cannot do.
Take time to meet up with past clients to see the work they perform. This is especially important in bigger renovations such as additions, complete kitchen renovations, and large scaled exterior home improvements. Look at the similarity between each project, the quality of the materials that were used, and overall craftsmanship. Also investigate how satisfied current and past clients are with the work that is done. Other qualities to look for in their overall professionalism is the timeliness of returned phone calls, if they keep appointments and are, they on time, do they drive company vehicles and wear uniforms?
There are lots of little ways to make sure you get the renovation experience you are looking for. It is important to understand that home improvement projects don’t happen overnight, and neither will hiring the perfect contractor. Take time and have patience; due diligence will make the renovation run smoother than you ever thought possible.
As a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all Southeast Michigan, Kearns Brothers, Inc. offers clients a wide range of services to meet their construction needs including: roofing, siding, window, masonry, chimneys, gutters, and insulation services. More information can be found at www.kearnsbrothers.com.