Tips for Hiring & Working With a Contractor

Are you in the middle of remodeling your home? Planning on updating dated styles in your kitchen or bathroom? Well, you probably will have to hire a contractor to help plan and execute the renovation. If you have never managed a home renovation on your own, here are some tips on hiring the right contractor for your job.

1. VET OUT SEVERAL CANDIDATES

In conjunction with recommendations from your friends and family, be sure to do your research in other areas to make sure you have the right person for the remodel. Sites like Yelp, Houzz and Angie’s List will have a large network of contractors and interior designers who specialize in different rooms and styles. Be sure to read client reviews to get an idea of how he or she operates on the job. Narrow down your list to the top 3 candidates that may seem fit for the job and contact them directly.

2. HAVE YOUR QUESTIONS READY

When you contact your prospective contractor via telephone, be sure to have a few questions ready to conduct a quick phone interview. Ask about previous project sizes, financial references from suppliers, how many projects they currently are working on at the same time as yours, and whatever else you may see fit. Getting these preliminary questions answered right away will save you both time and energy before meeting the contractor in person.

 3. BE ON THE SAME PAGE

Make sure that both you and the contractor you are considering are on the same page in terms of timeline and budget. Set your expectations early, so there is no question regarding either when the project has already commenced and too far along.

4. BE AS SPECIFIC AS POSSIBLE IN WRITING

If you’ve narrowed down and selected your contractor, be sure to include all project specifics in a written contract before moving forward with the remodel. If you have already selected materials or have any details in mind, make sure to include it in the contract. Set a payment schedule for the project. Large projects typically starts with 10 percent at contract signing, and 3 equal payments of 25 percent throughout the duration of the project, and the final 15 percent upon completion.

5. BE HANDS ON

Check on your project often, to ensure that the project is staying on schedule and on budget. Frequent and clear communication will also ensure that the project won’t be cutting any corners, especially since this project is on your dime!