If you are doing a remodeling job, it helps to have a contractor, but how do you choose from the many different contractors available in your area?
Find Recommendations
Start with family and friends and then check with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
Do an Interview
Once you have a list of your recommendations, make a quick call and ask some questions about if they will work with your projects, how long they have worked with subcontractors, if they can give you a list of past clients, and if they are willing to provide any references. This can give you an idea of the reliability and availability they have for your project.
Meet with Them Face to Face
Based on your phone interviews, you can then pick a few that you should meet face to face to get estimates. Contractors should be able to answer any questions you have in a manner that makes you feel comfortable. You need to make sure you and the contractor communicate well since this person is going to be in your home. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to make you even more comfortable with the contractor of your choosing.
Start Your Research
Now that you have narrowed down your list even more it’s time to complete the research. Call up past clients and see how they like the finished project and how the project went. You shouldn’t just rely on past results and visit a current job site to see just how the contractor works. Is the job site safe and neat? Is the contractor careful with the property?
Get Bids
Now is the time to focus on your work and start to make plans and get bids. Don’t let price be your guide when it comes to picking contractors and make sure that your comfort and the technical competence of the contractor are factored in.