Hiring a Contractor

Whether your home improvement projects are large or small, hiring a reliable, qualified and competent contractor is vital to any successful project. With this in mind, here are some top tips to help you with making this important decision. 

Conducting the Interview 

Once you’ve made a list of potential contractors to use, it’s best to interview them. Here are some important questions to ask: 

• Is the company state-licensed and registered?
• Will the company work on the project full time?
• Will the company hire subcontractors to assist with the job?
• What kinds of permits are required for the project?
• How long will the project take to complete? 
• Does the company guarantee a finish date? 

After the Interview 

• After you’ve conducted contractor interviews and have narrowed your options down to your top choices, ask them to provide proof of coverage for workers’ compensation and general liability. 
• Once you’ve obtained proof of coverage from each contractor, ask them for a written bid. The bid should include materials, labor rates and a time frame to complete the job. 
• When you have several bids, it’s wise to check the references provided by each of the contractors. Ask the references if they were pleased with the work done. From there, choose the contractor that offers the best price for your budget and holds a respected reputation. 
   

Dealing With Subcontractors

If a contractor needs to hire subcontractors, the company must pay them on time or the subcontractors can put a lien on your home. To protect yourself, ask the contractor, subcontractors and suppliers for a lien release or waiver.

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