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10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring your Contractor
- What is your background and how experienced are you in remodeling?
You don't want your home to be a training ground for someone trying to learn the business.
- How experienced are the people who work for you?
The company you hire is only as good as the people in it. You should look to see if the complexity of your project matches the experience of the company.
- Are you a "Class B" licensed General Building Contractor?
There are three classes of state licensed building contractors, Class A, Class B, and Class C.
- Are you licensed to work in my city or county?
Contractors are required to be licensed in the localities in which they work.
- Do you carry general liability insurance?
In addition to being licensed, any contractor that you consider should be covered by general liability insurance. This ensures that, should he or any of his crew members damage your property in any way, the expense to repair it will be covered by the insurance company. Insist on seeing proof of a current policy.
- Do you carry workers compensation insurance?
General liability will cover your property, but not injuries to your contractor or his crew. Make sure he or each of his sub contractors carries Worker's Comp insurance or the equivalent, so you won't have to worry about footing the medical bills should someone get injured on the job.
- Will you pull all the required building permits?
Make sure your contractor pulls all required permits. This is very important. When a contractor pulls the required building permits, you know things will be done to “code." Also, many homeowners insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered. Not all contractors will do this. Many prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the “hassle” with the inspectors. Some contractors may ask you to get the permits. This could be a warning sign that they are not able to pull the permit because they are either unlicensed or the work is outside of their license. A reputable contractor will permit every job where a permit is required.
- How do you handle the Dirt & Dust?
Construction is dusty and dirty! It gets everywhere, especially if any sanding is being done. Make sure the contractor will make an honest effort to keep the dust contained, or notify you when the heavy dust generating operations will take place so you can place sheets over furniture or move sensitive belongings. Make sure the contractor agrees to sweep up and place all construction debris in a predetermined place or refuse container at the end of every day.
- Will you furnish me a list of references?
Don't ask for one or two references. Most contractors could do that. Ask for 10 or more names, then call three or four.
- How much do you charge for estimates?
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