Making home improvements not only makes the home more enjoyable for you to live in, it also helps you increase the value of your home. If you are going to call in a professional to help you with the improvements, however, it is important to keep in mind these 5 tips on how to pick the best home improvement contractor.
#1: Check References
Once you have decided to hire a contractor, start asking your friends, family, and co-workers if they have anyone they would recommend for the job. Getting references from people you know is one of the best ways to hire a quality contractor for the job. If you don’t know anyone that has had work done recently, however, you can still ask contractors to provide you with references. Be certain to get in touch with these references and find out just how satisfied they were with the contractor’s work.
#2: Look at Samples
When you contact a contractor, he should be able to direct you toward samples of his work or should be able to show you pictures of projects that he has completed. Every reputable contractor has developed a portfolio that he can show to potential clients. Ask to see the portfolio and, if possible, ask if there are any structures nearby that you can visit in order to inspect the work firsthand.
#3: Ask About Licensing
Licensing requirements vary from state to state. Therefore, you need to be aware of the licensing requirements in your state so you can make sure the contractor you are considering is properly licensed. Even if there are no licensing regulations in your state, check the contractor’s credentials and make certain he is properly trained to perform the job you need done.
#4: Find Out About Insurance
Before your contractor begins work on your property, he needs to be properly insured. Make certain the contractor is insured against damage to your property and for liability in case the job doesn’t get performed correctly. You should also make certain he has insurance on his workers in case any of them get injured on the job.
#5: Make Sure You are Comfortable
Since you will be working with the contractor for the next several days or even weeks, you want to make certain you feel comfortable talking with him and as if you are on the same page. You should never feel pressured by a contractor to do things a certain way. Rather, he should listen to your needs and find ways to help make your home improvement dreams a reality.
