Hiring a contractor, basic

Hiring a contractor can be one of the most intimidating experiences for a homeowner. Most people don't know a reliable contractor, have some reluctance about major remodeling, and hear horror stories from friends or relatives. But it doesn't have to be that way, by following a few, simple steps:

Have A Plan- The first step to a smart remodel is to have a strategy. The frustration that many homeowners experience with contractors, is not having a definitive game plan. This complicates the process and can lead to cost overruns and unsatisfactory work. If a homeowner can properly convey their expectations, it takes a lot of pressure off both parties. Use drawings, preferably by a qualified designer, engineer or architect, like me.

Get Recommendations- There is a good chance a friend, relative, or colleague has had some work done in the past few years. Were they satisfied? Do you like their home improvements? Perhaps you know a home inspector. Of course you can check with the employees of a big box retailer or lumberyard.

Don't Go With The First Warm Body- An error many people make, is going with the first person who gives them an estimate. This is a mistake for a few reasons. First, if you speak to a few contractors, you will likely get several different prices. By doing so, you may realize your budget is high in some areas, and too low in others. Furthermore, three, and that is the target number, sets of eyes, will give you three differing perspectives. Talking to several different people, may raise some ideas you would never think of.

Always, Always Ask For References- Any contractor worth their salt, should be able to provide a list of projects they have done. I suggest taking this a step further. If they are active, which they should be, there is a home or project that is current or just finished. It benefits you to drive by, or even ask to go inside, to look at their work. Try to compare apples to apples -was their project similar to yours?

Don't Leave Things To Chance- Lets think about insurance- theirs and yours. You may want to check your homeowners policy, to see what is covered in the event of an accident. You definitely want to make sure the contractor has insurance, bonding, and that it is current and substantial. Consider a background check. This is a tough one to call, but these folks will be inside your home. This may come as a surprise to the contractor, but it would most likely make someone with a sketchy background think twice. Frankly, this is an individual choice, but something to consider, particularly if there are small children involved. Verify whether or not permits are needed and who will obtain them.

Establish A Pay Schedule- This is probably the biggest area of concern for both you and the contractor. Do they wish to be paid half up front and half upon satisfactory completion? Will you pay for materials and then on a weekly, or ever few days basis, depending on the size of the job? Be sure to get explicit costs on line items, and avoid things like- three thousand dollars to *remodel kitchen*. Require as much specificity as possible. Keep as much as possible for the final payment.

Check The Job- There is a fine line between micromanaging and being absentee. Check the contractors work on a consistent basis. This might mean every couple of days, if you aren't living in the house. For many, it might be everyday. Perhaps you inspect the work after the worker/s have gone home for the day. Hopefully, you have established a communications protocol for questions or problems. But the best way to solve a problem is to attack it immediately.

Get It Down On Paper- We aren't suggesting the Louisiana Purchase here. But it is imperative you and the contractor have a written agreement. There needs to be an amount, beginning and ending date, insurance proof, and as much detail as possible, to make you and the contractor comfortable with expectations. Consequences are good things-discuss and agree what will happen, on both sides if either side fails to meet their obligations.