We all like them on our birthdays, but the last thing you want from a contractor is a surprise. That's why when you hire someone to do remodeling on your home, every detail of the project should be in writing.
A friend, neighbor, or relative might say they could get you a good deal, remember the cost of losing that bond should something go wrong during the building process.
A recommendation from friends or neighbors is the best method of selecting a contractor. Licensing, insurance, and availability should be some of your considerations, once you've narrowed down your options. Ask each candidate for the names and phone numbers of at least two references from people for whom they've done similar work. When you contact the listed references, ask if the job was done well, the budget was met, and if the project was completed on time.
Set up an appointment for a meeting at your home, once you've got three candidates of your liking. If you find them abrasive or impatient with your questions, go to the next one on the list. You need a contractor who is open to communication, should problems occur in the middle of the project. It is also important to know if he is personally supervising the construction or if someone else will be there on his behalf.
A formal bid based on the plans and material specifications should be required. If one bid is much lower than the others, you probably won't be getting the best quality work, although in the current economy, some contractors are low-balling just to get jobs.
The written contract is the most important aspect once you've made your choice.
The contract should contain a detailed list of all work to be done. Read and reread to guarantee that you know who is responsible for any demolition, cleanup, and trash hauling related to the project, as well as any fees associated with permits and inspection.
The contract should contain a detailed list of all materials to be used in the project, and that the contractor must have your written consent to make any changes in the type of material or make any additional purchases.
Watch out for any wording that refers to materials of 'equal' value that may actually be a cheaper substitute than what you're paying for. If you're installing new kitchen cabinets, making a prior visit to the home improvement store would be good for you, finding out the difference between birch and maple wood for example has its own value. Pick out and price any plumbing fixtures or floor coverings that will be part of the job so you and the contractor are always on the same page.
Another important part of the contract whould be the start and completion dates, as well as the payment schedule. Before starting the project, a contractor might require a down payment, ten percent is appropriate. Payments should be made in stages as the work progresses, which gives the contractor the incentive to keep things moving. Never agree to pay by the hour or day, unless you want your new deck to take three months to complete. The contract also should state you will be provided with copies of all invoices for materials.
Finally, include in the contract that you won't make the final payment or sign off on the job until the work has passed final inspection. That will help ensure a job done right in a timely fashion.
Choose the right local contractor Wichita for your next project.
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