Practical Tips for Finding Reliable Home Contractors in Your Area

 

Did you know that hardest part of many home improvement and maintenance projects isn’t the project itself? In fact, many homeowners find the process of searching for the right general contractor more difficult than going through the motions of the construction project. But with a little preparation, finding the right contractors can be a relatively simple and pain free process. Here’s how:

Determine the scope of your project

Would you go to dermatologist with concerns about the health of eye? Probably not. In the same way, it’s important to find the right contractors for your home improvement and construction projects. Be wary of hiring a jack of all trades contractor, as they’re more likely to be a master of none. This is especially true when it comes to electrical repairs, which should only be performed by a professional and licensed electrician. Having an understanding of what your project or repair entails will support your search in finding the right contractors for the job.

Ask for personal recommendations

Need plumbing services? You can expedite your search by reaching out to trusted friends and family members who may be able to recommend contractors they’ve used in the past. Many plumbers and other contractors rely word of mouth in order to find new clients, and they may even give you a discount for referring their work to others! Unlike online reviews, a personal recommendation from someone you know and trust gives you the opportunity to ask detailed questions about the experience as a whole. This invaluable information can help you make your final decision.

Do some phone interviews

After conducting an online search and receiving some personal recommendations or references, you’re likely to have a list of potential contractors. Be sure to contact each prospect and explain the scope of your project to them to the best of your ability, keeping in mind that unexpected challenges often arise as the construction or renovation begins. It’s important to ask the contractor if they have experience in handling your kind of project, if they work with subcontractors, if they can provide references, and any other questions you have at the time. Keep a notebook handy to take any notes.

Schedule a face-to-face meeting

After conducting your phone interviews, choose your top three choices and schedule face-to-face meetings. It’s important to have your potential contractor meet with you at the job site, as this will help you learn more about them and they will have an opportunity to personally survey the work that needs to be done. This is necessary in order to create an accurate estimate. Explaining a car problem over the phone to a mechanic is only somewhat effective, and in the same way a contractor will find it nearly impossible to estimate the cost of your project without taking a look at it. An in person meeting will also give you a chance to ask additional questions.

Remember that an ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure, and taking the time to find the find the contractor prepares you for a job well done!

The lowest bid isn’t always the best

In addition to checking professional licenses, complaint history, and references, be sure to review bids with a critical eye. Keep in mind that the lowest bid isn’t always the best choice, especially if it’s markedly lower than the others. It may be helpful to ask for a specific breakdown of costs, such as materials, labor, profit margins, and more. A bid that’s dramatically lower than the rest should be considered a red flag, as they may indicate unsavory business practices and poor craftsmanship. Once you’ve reviewed your bids and make your final decision, expect to wait for period of time for your project to begin. The busiest contractors tend to be the best!