Are you a homeowner in need of a good contractor? If so, then you are not alone. A common headache for homeowners is always finding something that needs work.
Different types of projects can have varying difficulties. Many can be simple DIY projects. Others need expert help. For example, trying to DIY a leaky roof can be hard. Shoddy repair work will likely worsen things. As such, you should always hire reputable contractors for complicated tasks.
In this post, we have listed important points for your “hiring a contractor checklist”. From getting estimates to anticipating delays – here are 10 points to help you get hold of the right general contractor (GC).
10 Key Factors to Be in Your Hiring a Contractor Checklist
How do you ensure you hire the right contractor? Well, you should compile a checklist of important factors. These factors can help you identify the ideal GC for your project. Professional home advisors provide great tips and services for renovation. Their specialized skills and knowledge guarantee you get expert help for your job. When you make a checklist to hire a contractor, make sure to consider the following 10 points:
- Getting multiple estimates
- Hiring local contractors
- Checking past work
- Taking time to decide
- Checking insurance and bonding
- Conducting in-person interviews
- Getting everything in writing
- Not paying upfront
- Expecting delays
- Keeping a job file
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Getting Multiple Estimates
Don’t jump into finalizing a contract with the first builder you speak to!
Before finalizing a contract, get quotations from several general contractors; It is a good practice. The cost and time required to get the job done will vary between different professionals. As such, studying several offers will help you find a contractor who is ideal for your project.
Having several estimates also allows you to compare prices and timelines. Doing due diligence lets you understand the market rate better. This also protects you from getting overcharged.
After reviewing all offers, you can choose the best fit for your home construction or home renovation project.
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Hiring Local Contractors
Hiring local contractors is an underrated factor but an important one. Many homeowners overlook this when they should be paying extra attention.
Local licensed contractors provide several benefits. They are more familiar with regional building codes and climate conditions. Moreover, they have good connections with local suppliers. This means they can offer better material costs for your project. They are also more accessible than their out-of-state counterparts. This makes in-person communications much easier.
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Checking Past Work
A contractor’s past work gives you an idea about what you are paying for.
Always ask the GC to provide a portfolio of previous work. This gives you an idea of their work quality and understanding of a project. You can also assess their attention to detail and how they worked on similar projects.
Checking past work has another advantage. You can connect with the contractor’s previous clients. This lets you get a “customer review” about the contractor’s work. You can also learn about their punctuality and communication.
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Checking Insurance and Bonding
Insurance and bonding can be lifesavers in the contractor hiring process. Many homeowners miss these points or are unaware of their importance in a contractor hiring checklist. This leads to negative experiences that mar home improvement projects.
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Insurance
Hiring an insured contractor is crucial for a project. You never know when an accident might happen on the worksite. Insurance protects your project against delays and legal troubles. As such, you should ask for a certificate of insurance when hiring a general contractor.
While on the subject, you should know that contractors can have five types of insurance:
- General Liability Insurance
- Professional Liability Insurance
- Worker Compensation Insurance
- Property Insurance
- Automobile Insurance
General liability insurance protects against property damage or physical injury caused by the contractor’s work.
Professional liability insurance covers financial losses due to errors by the contractor.
Worker compensation insurance covers worker injuries or illnesses that occur on the job.
Property insurance provides security against a contractor’s lost tools and equipment.
Automobile insurance protects against accidents, damages, and liabilities involving a contractor’s work vehicle.
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Bonding
Bonding is a form of financial protection for your project. It ensures that the contractor fulfills their contract terms. If they fail to do so, the bond provides you with financial compensation to finish the work.
A surety company provides bonding services.
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Conducting In-person Interviews
Face-to-face interviews can do wonders in a contractor hiring process.
As a homeowner, it is always better to meet potential contractors in person. Doing this helps you determine if a contractor is a good fit for your project.
In-person interviews enable you to:
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Assess Professionalism and Communication
A strong first impression can play a crucial role in choosing a general contractor. It can help you sense if they are a good match for your project. Moreover, asking your contractor questions about their experience and business practices lets you gauge their professionalism. Their listening skills and responsiveness can also help determine their communication style.
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Note Their Understanding of the Work Scope
Meeting in person helps you see if the contractor understands the extent of your project. You can get a good idea about their grasp of job specifics. Asking them about their observations on the project also helps check their understanding of the scope of work.
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Review Important Documents
You can check important documents such as permits and portfolios when you meet contractors in person. Good documentation makes convincing cases for contractors.
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Getting Everything in Writing
Written records can be lifelines against misunderstandings and disputes about your project.
A written comprehensive contract protects both parties in a project. Written records also ensure project completion without any hiccups. Write down even small points that you discuss with your contractor. This ensures a smooth process flow.
When you hire a contractor, record all the terms and conditions in a contract. A thorough contract should include the following five points:
- Project scope
- Timelines
- Payment schedule
- Materials
- Warranty
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Project Scope
It is a breakdown of the project work. It includes the project details and work required for completion. It also outlines the methods and materials the contractor will use for the job.
A written project scope ensures both parties agree on all conditions and requirements. It also protects against future disagreements and disputes.
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Timelines
Timelines are vital parts of any project. Make sure you have the start and end dates in clear writing. You can also include expected dates for specific project milestones.
Written records of the timeline help both parties to manage expectations better. Timelines also help track the project and check if it is running on schedule.
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Payment Schedule
The project contract should include written details of all the payment conditions. It should outline the total cost of the project and payment schedules and methods. You should also specify upfront and milestone-based payments in writing.
A detailed payment schedule ensures fair and agreed-upon terms. It can also help prevent disputes that sour the project experience.
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Materials
Record material details in clear writing before work begins. Make sure to write down material types, brands, and other details in the contract. This helps ensure a job is done right and prevents spats after the work is complete.
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Warranty
Reputable contractors provide a warranty for their work. This is a huge benefit and deciding factor. You should record their warranty conditions in the contract. Warranties can include coverage on workmanship and materials. It can also cover any post-project problems.
Having a warranty in writing offers both protection and peace of mind.
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Not Paying Upfront
We recommend homeowners not pay the entire project cost upfront. A full or large initial payment often risks non-completion. This is because contractors might lose the drive to finish the project if they are pre-paid.
Instead, you can follow payment structures and pay in installments. You can also provide milestone payments for reaching specified objectives during the project. Only complete the full payment after the project is complete and you are happy with it.
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Expecting Delays
No matter how perfect things may seem, you should always expect delays. The reasons may include bad weather and a lack of material supply. Note that delays are more prevalent in larger projects.
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Keeping a Job File
We recommend always keeping a job file for your project. Keeping all the contracts, receipts, and invoices in one place is a good practice. Doing this lets you access all relevant documents with ease whenever you need them. You can also use them as references in case of any disputes.
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Taking Time to Decide
We always recommend not rushing into hiring a contractor. You should take your time to consider all options. This lets you make a sound decision about a crucial and expensive endeavor.
Several factors can influence your contractor hiring process. For example, you need to consider their experience in home repair work. Their budget is also important, and it must align with your own. Their professionalism and understanding of your project are other important considerations.
Taking time to assess these points helps you find a good contractor. Hiring the contractor who best fits your project will then ensure ideal results when the job is done.
After all, you can never go wrong with a sound decision!
Conclusion
Choosing the right contractor is crucial for homeowners wishing to approach home improvement or repair work. The right craftsperson will have expertise and skills. Having a checklist will help you hire the right contractor for your project.
A complete general contractor checklist should include some key points. You should get estimates from several builders. You should also assess their previous work and check if they are licensed and insured. Get all terms and conditions in writing and maintain a comprehensive job file. Following this checklist and tips will ensure good work on your project. This will prevent headaches later on.
If you need renovation and remodeling services, look no further than Case Design/Remodeling Halifax! We have been improving and transforming homes for over a decade. Our qualified and friendly renovators ensure the highest standard of quality and care for our clients.
Get in touch with us today! Call us at (902) 454-2273, send us an email, or drop by our office.
