How to Choose a Contractor for Your Home Remodel

How to Choose a Contractor for Your Home Remodel

Making home improvements involve some difficult decisions; what renovations will bring the most value to your home? What color palate do I use in the bedrooms vs the kitchen? Do I use real hardwood or engineered hardwood flooring? Many feel that making the right decision when hiring a contractor is the most important decision. Here are a few tips to help you confidently decide which contractor to hire to complete your home renovation.

1. Always ask for a referral. Word of mouth from people you trust will always give you a few solid leads for finding qualified professionals. You can also check the website for the National Association of Remodeling Industry for a list of contractors in your area.
2. Check contractor’s credentials. Many contractors have websites that list their different licenses and credentials. If they don’t, call them to retrieve those credentials and check them against several state and local municipalities as well as professional associations like the National Association of Remodeling Industry. It’s important to the structural integrity of your home to have someone qualified to complete your desired work.
3. Conduct an interview with each contractor (either by phone or preferably face to face), and ask for references. You want to be able to connect with the contractor person to person as well as find out honest opinions of their work from past clients. It will help inform your decision.
4. Request a written bid from each contractor that clearly outlines each step of the renovation process. The written bid should contain information regarding the agreed upon payment schedule, proof of liability insurance, completion date, materials to be used, etc. When you have the details of the bid clear from the beginning, it ensures that all parties included are clear on expectations. When expectations are clear from the beginning, it helps ensure a successful renovation. 

For more Home Improvement Tips, see our Pinterest Board.

https://www.pinterest.com/5aspace/home-improvement/

To read the articles used as references, click on the links below.

http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/clean-and-organize/how-to-choose-a-remodeling-contractor

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20539027,00.html