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1. Communication is key!
When you interview a potential contractor, you should feel comfortable speaking with him. After all, he will be working on your biggest investment! Explain the goals you have for your project. Can the contractor give you real solutions? Communication is the key to a productive client/contractor relationship. By clearly communicating your creative ideas, asking the right types of questions, and listening to your contractor's solutions, you'll know if he is right for your project.
2. Don't hire based on lowest price alone.
The basis of a contractor's price is important. Do not simply hire a contractor with the lowest estimate. Examine and breakdown each estimate. Is the price of materials low compared to other estimates? The materials could be inferior. If the contractor's price is considerably lower than other estimates his standard of workmanship may not be up to par with more qualified contractors. Or the contractor may have made a mistake on the price. Weigh all factors-price quote, references, and professionalism before making a decision.
3. What are the contractor's quality standards?
Be sure to hire a contractor who references "Quality Standards for the Professional Remodeler" in his contract. For more information on quality.
We recommend you hire a contractor with five or more years of experience. Research has shown that contractor's with five or more years of experience are likely to have a solid business foundation, and are therefore more likely to be reliable.
5. Verify insurance.
It is extremely important that a contractor be properly insured to protect you from potential legal problems. A contractor should have the following types of coverage:
Workman's Compensation Insurance - protects you in case a worker is injured on your property. General Liability Insurance - covers you in case a contractor damages your property. Automobile Insurance - protects you in case a contractor's vehicle damages another vehicle on your property.
Important! The form in which you receive a contractor's certificate of insurance is very important. To ensure that a certificate of insurance is valid, the certificate should be mailed directly from the insurance agency to you. The certificate should name you and your property as co-insured. It is not adequate to accept a photocopied certificate of insurance from a contractor because you have no assurance that the certificate is authentic.
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