TIPS FOR SELECTING A HOME REMODELING CONTRACTOR

What are the scope, budget and timeline of your home remodeling or renovation project? What portions of the project can you complete yourself? Are there any building restrictions or hidden challenges to consider? Have you consulted with (interior designer, architect, etc) experts to make sure all bases are covered? What is your contingency plan if you will be without essential home items such as your bathroom, kitchen, and etc.? Now put your plan in writing as a roadmap for everyone to follow. Outline each step of the project with a brief description, due date and point person. Before the project begins, communicate expectations to both contractors and family members so that everyone is on the same page. Find a home remodeling contractors in Charlotte here.

SELECTING A CONTRACTOR - BE A SKEPTIC

As the old saying goes “if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is too good to be true.”

SELECTING A CONTRACTOR - DON'T BE PRESSURED BY SALES TACTICS.

High pressure sales techniques come from sales quotas that have been imposed on workers to motivate “volume” of work rather than quality of work. Making these goals assures their livelihood, sometimes at your expense.

SELECTING A CONTRACTOR - FIND A "FRIEND" IN THE BUSINESS.

All things being equal, select a likable project partner who you trust and who you can talk with openly about your project, especially when problems arise.

SELECTING A CONTRACTOR - GET REFERENCES

Seek references from trusted sources like HomeServiceReports.org. Interview at least 2 home remodeling companies, and ask them the following questions. How long have they been in business? Are they members of the Better Business Bureau? What is their Contractor’s License number? Do they have “before” and “after” pictures? How do they resolve “punch items”? Do they have liability and workers’ compensation insurance?

HOME REMODELING TIP - GET IT IN WRITING

Document all project specifics upfront, including any special exceptions that you have negotiated. If subcontractors will be used, include a “release of lien clause” to prevent “subs” from placing a lien on your home if the general contractor does not pay them.

HOME REMODELING TIP - AVOID LARGE DEPOSITS

Offer a minimum deposit, with balances paid at defined intervals over the project’s timeline. Don’t make final payment until the job is done right. Don’t leave your home unattended or unprotected. Whenever possible, make sure you are (or someone you trust is) available to “supervise” contractors in your home.

HOME REMODELING TIP - AVOID EMPLOYEES WHO OFFER TO DO THE JOB FOR LESS.

If they are willing to steal from their company, you may not want them around your home. Worse yet, these employees may not have required insurance, experience or tools. Finally, it may be harder to get differences resolved if you are not satisfied with the results.

HOME REMODELING TIP - DON'T HELP CONTRACTORS

If the remodeling contractor is injured, he may be able to make a tort claim against you. Your tools may also be broken or not returned.

HOME REMODELING TIP - HANDLING UNRESOLVED ISSUES

Home contractors are people too, and sometimes make mistakes. Good companies do everything they can to resolve these problems fairly so be honest if you have concerns about their work. Less reputable contractors, unfortunately, may be less responsive. In these instances, contact the contractor’s licensing board to request an arbitration hearing, report them to the Better Business Bureau or file a suit in small claims court.

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