Presidential elections are here again and we have some tough decisions to make regarding who will restore our country to its former prominence and glory and hasten our slow recovery, or end our steady decline (depending on who you talk to). Hillary leads one side and Donald the other. What a choice! However, some believe that choosing the new leader of the free world is simple compared to selecting a good contractor. But choosing the right people for a remodeling project is not as difficult as choosing a president. All you have to do is follow a few fundamental rules.
Before calling potential contractors, ask for references to people who have done similar work. Check with professional organizations, (such as the National Kitchen and Bath Association), to see if there are members in your area. Call your local department of consumer affairs to find out what type of license is required for the job you are considering and make sure the company you hire has the proper license. Also, check to see that they have liability insurance and that their workers are covered by both workers’ compensation insurance and disability insurance. Many small businesses and sole proprietorships can legally waive this insurance, but if your property is injured, it becomes your financial responsibility if you are not covered.
When you’ve compiled a “short list” of potential contractors, give yourself enough time so you don’t have to rush into a decision. Since you can’t see them debating on national television, schedule a meeting with them to get estimates and, more importantly, see if you are comfortable with them. Let common sense, one of your most valuable senses, be your guide. The relationship between you and your contractor is the key to a successful job. If you start out with someone who doesn’t return calls, is late, and you don’t have the patience for their questions before hiring them, don’t wait much longer after you’ve given them a deposit.
When you’ve narrowed it down to a couple of options, it’s time to check the references. Ask the contractor for the names of the people they have worked for. Of course, getting the names won’t help you much if you don’t call them.
Lastly, watch out for the lowest bidders. Every time I have succumbed to the “best price” for a job at home, I regret it. As attractive as low bids are, they can be a warning sign that the contractor may be in financial difficulty. You may be desperate to get your deposit to pay the bills for a job you’ve already started. If this is the case, you will undoubtedly run into the same difficulty when doing your job and may have to quit due to lack of funds.
Once you’ve selected a business, insist on a written contract that specifies exactly what will be done in your home. If you have any questions … put them in writing. The more explicit the contract and work orders, the less chance of misunderstandings after work begins. Reputable companies also use “Change Orders” for any deviation from the original contract that requires you and the contractor to sign. Don’t be afraid of the paperwork, its purpose is to protect you and the legitimate contractor. Please note that once you sign a contract, you have three business days to change your mind. This law was passed so you don’t fall prey to high-pressure salespeople. You must notify the contractor in writing, within three days, that you wish to cancel, and have proof that you have done so.
If you do your homework and select a reputable contractor, your project will be successful. However, even with a great contractor, don’t expect any job to be done without a few flaws. Anyone who promises a major renovation without a hitch is not being entirely honest, there are too many variables. But, when you’re dealing with a legitimate contractor, any issues that come up will be resolved quickly and efficiently, and in the end, you’ll be grateful that you went the extra mile to select them.
