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Guidelines for Selecting a Home Improvement Contractor
In today’s world the most valuable asset
owned by people is their home. And when considering any size home
improvement project, protecting this investment should be top
priority.
The first step in any remodeling or improvement project is to select
the right contractor. Prudent homeowners will make their selection
carefully and after thoughtful consideration. Is the contractor
licensed, and is he experienced? If so, in what particular area is
his expertise?
How to find a Qualified Contractor:
One source for locating a qualified, experienced contractor is from
other people who have had similar remodeling work done. When talking
with contractors, request references and take the time to check them
out.
Check with a service that keeps track records of various
contractors. You can also use online resources for locating a
qualified contractor in your area.
Hire only a home improvement contractor with strong referrals and
high rankings. Depending on the type of project you are planning,
you may need to deal with any of the following professional
contractors:
Architects are designers of homes, buildings, and home improvement
remodeling projects. You may want to consult one if your project
includes new construction or structural changes.
Designers usually have expertise in a certain area of the home, such
as interior decorating, and bedroom or bath design.
Design/build contractors see your project through from concept to
completed construction, and may have an architect or certified
designer on staff.
General Contactors oversee the entire construction process, and
sub-contract specialized contractors such as plumbers or
electricians.
Specialized contractors are highly proficient in their individual
area, such as dry wall, paint, or cabinetry.
Questions to ask Possible Candidates:
Questions to ask before selecting a contractor for your home
improvement might include: How long have you been contracting?
What licenses and certifications do you carry? How many projects
have you completed in the last year; what were they, and who were
they for?
Ask, “What references do you have? Will there be any
subcontractors, and if so what are their credentials? What insurance
coverage do you have? What permits are required for my project?”
Be Thorough in Your Search
You might also want to check with the appropriate government office
to see whether or not there are any unresolved complaints against
the contractor before making your final selection.
Check out all references provided and ask questions such as: Was the
project completed on time and were you happy with the results? How
well did the contractor communicate with you throughout the project?
Were there any cost over-runs?
Also ask if the contractor employee’s were on time, courteous, and
whether or not they cleaned up the home improvement site when they
were finished?
By following these guidelines, you help insure a successful home
improvement!
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube