Tips for Hiring a Home Improvement Contractor

Hiring a contractor you can trust is important.

We all know home improvement projects gone wrong can cost you, so you’ll want to find a contractor that will complete the project right the first time.
So where do you start?

1. Research potential contractors.

• Ask your family, friends, and neighbors about the home improvement contractors they’ve used in the past.
• Search for reviews on contractors in your area. HomeAdvisor and Yelp! are good places to start.

You found your contractor. Now what?

2. Ask your contractor right questions.

• How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year? This will help ensure you they know what they’re doing without questioning their skill. And it doesn’t hurt to ask for a list of projects they completed so you know they’re familiar with what you’re asking them to do.
• Will my project require a permit? Most contractors will know what permits are required for specifics jobs, but you’ll want to choose a contractor that is familiar with the specific permitting process in your county, city, or town.
• What types of insurance do you carry? Contractors should have: personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for copies of their insurance certificates to make sure they’re current, or you could be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.
• Will you be using subcontractors? If the contractor is using subcontractors make sure they have the proper insurance as well.

If all of this checks out it’s time to hire your contractor. What’s the next step?

3. Get a written contract.

Not every state requires contractors to have written agreements, but you’ll want to make sure you have one to safeguard you.
And lastly.

4. Keep records of the project.

• Copies of the contract.
• Any change orders.
• Any correspondence with your home improvement professionals.
• Keep record of all payments. You may need to keep receipts for tax purposes.