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Top 10 Things to Do When Hiring a Contractor

You're here: Home : Top 10 : Top 10 Things To Do When Hiring A Contractor

Hiring a contractor is like hiring a babysitter: You need to have complete trust in that person, since they’re taking care of what you cherish most. And where to start? You could ask your family and your neighbors for suggestions, but even that won’t give you full confidence. Hiring the wrong contractor can be disheartening and extremely costly. Before you even start your search, review our checklist on the Top 10 Things to Do When Hiring a Contractor.

Top Ten Number 1

Ask if They're Licensed, Bonded & Insured.

Check with your state or local government to make sure that they are licensed, bonded and have insurance. You should also find out how long they've been licensed, if they have any lawsuits against them and whether they’ve been cited for violations. Learn More

Top Ten Number 2

Check if They're on a Violations List.

Previous violations are rather obvious red flags. When hiring someone to work on your home or landscaping, you want a trustworthy (and completely legal) contractor. To find this information, simply run a good search on contractor violations in your state and you should… Learn More

Top Ten Number 3

Get Referrals on Jobs Similar to Your Own.

A contractor’s portfolio isn’t just photos of completed projects. To get the full idea of what the contractor is like, contact previous clients and ask how they were treated, how professional the contractor and their staff was throughout the project and how closely they… Learn More

Top Ten Number 4

Find Out the Number of In-house Employees.

A varying factor among contractors is how much of the work they do in-house. Some contractors have a large staff, able to complete every aspect of your project. Some hire the work out to subcontractors. Some do it all with one or two employees. A general rule: the more… Learn More

Top Ten Number 5

Find Out the Estimated Time On Site.

Many people’s main issues with contractors stem from the time spent at their homes – the crews might show up late or too early, work too late, or not come at all. Ask your contractor about the amount of time he/she estimates the crew will spend on the job. This will help… Learn More

Top Ten Number 6

Find Out How Many Other Jobs the Contractor Has.

We’ve all been there: the more work you do, the more you get paid. You want to overpromise and do it all. This is true of contractors as well. Even if a contractor is overbooked, many times the contractor will promise to “fit you in.” Verify if that’s actually possible. Learn More

Top Ten Number 7

Verify Workman’s Compensation is Up-to-date.

Did you know that if a contractor gets hurt while working on your property and isn't current on worker's comp insurance, your homeowner’s insurance will be liable for any injuries on the job? You’re also responsible for any subcontractor whose insurance isn't up-to-date! Learn More

Top Ten Number 8

Interview at Least Three Contractors; Get Bids in Writing.

Just as it is when you’re shopping for any major purchase, it’s always good to compare contractors for the best price. But make sure that each bid is for a comparable package beyond just the work itself. This is especially important with first-time home remodeling projects. Learn More

Top Ten Number 9

Check the Contractor’s Standings.

This is part of a general rule: the more information you gather on the contractor, the better. Often, business watchdog organizations have already done much of the homework for you! Learn More

Top Ten Number 10

Get a Copy of a Disclosure Statement.

In case you’re still not satisfied with these Top 10 tips for hiring a contractor, the disclosure statement will round them out for you. Most states require a licensed contractor to present you with a disclosure statement before the work begins; read it carefully. Learn More

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Posted by Jsparco on January 13, 2012

Thanks for sharing, these are 10 great tips on what to do when hiring a contractor. I've been in this position a few times when repairing both my old and new home. Recently I had the roof replaced due to hurricane damage, and K and B Landscape Supply did an amazing job. I couldn't be more pleased with the Wholesale Mulch / landscape company.


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Posted by rehabfinancial on January 13, 2012

These tips are great! I have shared this link with a number of our clients at Rehab Financial Group. Since we offer rehab loans, a lot of our clients are real estate investors. These were helpful tips to send out!


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Posted by MatthewRobert on January 13, 2012

Great list you put together here - it is worth printing this page and giving to our clients! Thanks Steven R LLC in Pennsylvania

 

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