?Finding a good home improvement contractor who is honest and reliable is like finding a good dentist. It takes time, effort and a little research to make sure you are getting the best local home contractor available in your area. The good news is that there are some very solid reputable contractors available. Your just need to follow a few steps to make sure on your search for contractors that you know what to look for.
First and foremost you want a contractor who is licensed. This is extremely important. When completing a home remodel you need a smart and experienced professional. A licensed and bonded contractor means the company is operating with the law. When finding a home improvement contractor the first thing you want to do is check their status with the state contractors board. This will give you reassurance that they are up to date and current in their status. Do not use a local home contractor who is not bonded and insured. They may be cheaper but that may cost you more in the long run.
It is always a a good idea to get three bids on your home remodel search. It's important you recognize that remodeling requires a pro who is experienced. Not a lot of people like to remodel as a profession. This is because there are many unknowns when you tear into a project. An experienced builder will know what to look for and can guess what problems your project could face. Old pipes, out of date codes etc. can play into your bid for the project.
As a rule, the low bid is usually the one to throw out. Especially if it is far off from the middle bid. Over and over again customers will use a low bid thinking they are saving money only to realize that savings may cost them a lot more in the future. On your search for contractors get your three bids but don't let money be the only factor in choosing your contractor.
Choose a remodeling contractor who carries insurance, is in good standing with the CCB board, is bonded, has a fair price that is within close range to another bid and finally choose someone who has good references and someone you like.
A remodeling project can be very stressful. Therefore it is extremely important that you work with someone you like and can communicate with. Ask questions up front, call their references. Find out what they are known for. Your contractor may be slow but they may be known for being honest and building a solid project.
Much like finding a dentist, you need to get several bids and find someone you relate to that has a strong professional standing in your community.
