Tips for hiring a contractor
Good morning, Marilyn. Over the past few weeks I have been suggesting to listeners that summer is an excellent time for home improvement projects. While some projects are simple enough to fall within the DIY category, others are going to require homeowners to call in the professionals. Hiring a home contractor can be a significant decision, especially for seniors. Here are six tips to help ensure a smooth and safe process:
- Check credentials and references:
- Verify that the contractor is licensed, insured and bonded. Ask for proof of insurance
- check references, especially from past clients who had similar projects done
- Here are some of the questions you might want to ask their references:
- Was the work completed on time on budget? If not, why?
- Was the quality of the workmanship and materials what you expected?
- Was the crew respectful and professional? Did they leave the job site reasonably tidy at the end of each work day?
- Even when the contact has come from a word of mouth referral, confirming credentials and references is a smart safeguard.
- Get Multiple estimates
- Usually I recommend homeowners get three written estimates to compare prices and services
- Make sure each estimate includes the scope of work, materials, labour costs, and timelines
- Review the contract carefully before you sign
- Details in the contract should include: the project start and completion dates, the schedule of payments, detailed list of materials and costs
- If you the homeowner is to source certain materials, or be responsible for preparing the work space somehow, this should also be clearly identified in writing to avoid confusion
- Avoid large upfront payments
- Any contractor who asks for a large down payment before work commences should raise a definite red flag
- More usually, a payment of 10-20% of project cost will be needed upfront to hire crews and pay for materials
- Subsequent payments are tied to project milestones and schedules
- Understand what permits and inspections are required
- Make sure you know what permits and inspections are needed for your particular project - clarify that your contractor will be applying for these permits and verify that they have been obtained prior to work starting
- Communicate clearly
- Maintain open and regular communication with your contractor by establishing expectations up front
- How and when will progress reports be delivered?
- How and when will any concerns you have be delivered to your contractor?
You know, Marilyn, I’ve had a lot of experience hiring contractors and I can tell you that sometimes I’ve been made to feel that I’m lucky that they’re willing to take me on as a client, rather than the other way around. But stand your ground and do the work necessary to properly vet your hires. I can save you aggravation, money and time in the long run.
For a full list of tips, questions to ask, and other valuable information about hiring a contractor, visit our website smartrealtysolution.com or call me at 416-460-5636. While you’re there, check out our upcoming webinars all about topics specific to downsizers. Like everything at SMART Realty Solutions these are free of cost or obligation.
For even more information, please visit:
https://www.bbb.org/all/home-improvement/how-to-hire-a-reliable-and-trustworthy-general-contractor
.jpg)
Join Us On
Marilyn Wetson's "From a Woman's Perspective"
Post a comment