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How to Find a Contractor
Everyone has heard horror stories of
contactor projects gone wrong. There are many contractors dedicated
to the highest standards and committed to the success of individual
projects. Finding a qualified professional contractor for a home
improvement project doesn't have to be a difficult task. By
following the guidelines stated below, you will help ensure that the
selection process is easier and that you are prepared to make an
informed decision.
Where to Find a Contractor:
- Get referrals from friends and family. They are the best place to
start because they will give honest feedback about the contractor’s
performance. Before rushing into a job, make sure the referred
company has experience with the project. For example, some
contractors may be experts in kitchens and baths but lack experience
in building new additions.
- Use online resources that provide certifications and references
from previous jobs. Also, contractors listed with online sites show
that they take pride in their business
- Ask for referrals from engineers and architects. They work with
contractors everyday and know the industry very well.
- Source multiple bids. It is always a good idea to speak to as many
contractors as possible. This will not only help you find the best
person for the job, but will also ensure that you are being charged
appropriately.
- Avoid using the yellow pages and bulletin board ads.
What to Ask For:
- When you think you have found a good contractor, ask for their
credentials. They should be bonded and insured (general liability
and worker’s compensation). Ask for the name of their insurance
agency, look up the number yourself, call the insurer and ask for a
copy of the Certificate of Insurance.
- Ask for the contractor’s portfolio and references. Keep in mind
that a contractor will probably only show you their favorable work
and comments.
- Call the local Better Business Bureau and make sure no complaints
have been filed against the contractor.
- Find out how long the contractor has been in business and how long
they have worked with their crew.
- Find out if the contractor will be working on simultaneous
projects. If working on multiple jobs, will they be able to devote
enough time to your project.
When Starting Negotiations:
- Begin by making a list of projects that need to be completed. Then
do research online to find out the average cost of that job. Make
sure the jobs done fit into your budget and make allowances for
unforeseen situations.
- Create and sign a contract. Make sure to include the following:
* Completion date. Some
contractors do not like completion dates because weather can be
unpredictable. Take into consideration their concerns and come up
with a reasonable completion date.
* Budget: be sure to take into
consideration overages that might occur due to unforeseen
situations.
* Negotiate terms, for example: 30
percent up front, 40 percent due at mid point, 20 percent due upon
completion, and 10 percent due upon inspection.
- Federal law requires a contractor to give you written notice of
your right to, without penalty, cancel a contract within three
business days of signing it.
- You may also want to consider a binding arbitrations clause, which
may enable you to resolve disputes without litigation.
- Also consider a warranty, which may cover materials and
workmanship. The warranty must be identified as either "full" or
"limited." You must include the name or the party that will insure
the warranty, as well as, the period of time the warranty is
guaranteed.
Remodeling your home should be an enjoyable experience. Make sure
you follow the steps above, leverage online resources that certify
online contactors, and ensure that they are experts in their field.
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