For the best results for your next home remodeling project, the key is selecting the right contractor. While there are many factors that should play into your decision, we wanted to take a moment to share 4 tips that should absolutely be taken into consideration when selecting a contractor for your home:
1. Ask for recommendations.
Chances are you have a friend that has recently undergone a home renovation, or perhaps you have admired the work of an addition that was made to a neighbor's home. These are the perfect people to talk to for recommendations for contractors. Not only are you able to see the outcome of the project in person, but you are able to hear candid feedback about what the experience was like when working with the contractor. If you like what you see and hear positive feedback from the homeowners about the renovation project, add these contractors to your list of potential candidates.
2. Check out the credentials for any contending contractor.
Once you have built a list of prospective contractors to consider, take the time to do some preliminary research. This means visiting the contractor's website to learn more about areas of specialty and recent projects that have been completed. It's also critical to confirm that the contractor has the required licensing in place with the state and local municipalities.
Depending on the home remodeling project that you are wanting to have completed, you may also want to see if the contractor has been awarded any special designations by organizations such as the National Kitchen & Bath Association, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, or the National Association of Homebuilders. Be warned, however, that not all certifications should be treated equally. Make yourself familiar with some of the coursework that goes into obtaining such certifications, and ideally look for a contractor that is certified in your specific area(s) of need.
3. Interview prospective contractors.
As a rule of thumb, try to keep this list of interviewees to 3 candidates. Keep in mind that one of the keys to a smooth home renovation is working with a contractor that communicates well. While you should ask the prospective contractor plenty of questions during the interview, your contractor should also ask you a number of questions to confirm that he or she has a strong understanding of the home remodeling project and your overall goals.
4. Check references.
While you may have connected with a prospective contractor based on a friend's recommendation, it's a good idea to also ask to speak with other homeowners that have recently worked with the contractor on a home remodeling project. This can give you a better idea of the scope of work that the contractor has dealt with and some unbiased views of what working with the contractor is like.
The decision to select a contractor for your next home remodeling project should not be taken lightly, and hopefully these 4 tips will help you to select the right contractor for your home.
