Renovating your home can be an exciting project, but finding the right contractor is key to achieving the results you want. As a homeowner, you want to make sure you hire reputable, skilled contractors who will get the job done right. Here are tips on how to find and select the best home renovation contractors for your next big home improvement project.
Research Potential Contractors Thoroughly
The first step in finding a great contractor is doing your homework. You want to look closely at each potential company before making any hiring decisions.
Check Reviews and References
One of the best ways to vet potential contractors is to read online customer reviews on sites like Yelp or HomeAdvisor. Pay attention to both the star ratings and the actual comments from past customers describing their experiences. Look for contractors with consistently positive feedback and high ratings.
You should also request and check references from the companies you are considering. Reputable firms should be able to easily provide references from recent customers that you can follow up with. Speaking directly to past customers can give you a better sense of the quality of the contractor’s work and their professionalism on the job.
Verify Licenses and Certifications
Before signing any contract, be sure to verify that a company has all the proper licensing and certifications for your state and locality. They should be able to provide license numbers. You can also check with your state contractor’s licensing board to ensure everything is valid and up to date.
Contractors that specialize in certain types of renovations like kitchens or bathrooms may have additional certifications that demonstrate their expertise. Look for memberships in recognized trade organizations as another sign of a contractor’s qualifications.
Look Into Resources Such as BBB
Additional places to research contractors are resources like the Better Business Bureau. Here you can find out if a company has had complaints lodged against them, along with ratings and reviews. Angi and other home services sites also provide ratings and transparency around issues like licenses and insurance.
Taking time to thoroughly research potential contractors using these resources can help avoid hiring disreputable or unqualified companies.
Interview Candidates Carefully
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, take the time to carefully interview the remaining candidates. This will help you further assess their experience, skills, and professionalism.
Ask About Their Specific Expertise
Find out how familiar the contractor is with the type of renovation project you have in mind, whether it’s a kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation. Ask about other similar projects they have tackled, and request photos of completed work. You want a firm that has extensive expertise in your specific type of remodel.
Inquire About Their Processes
A good contractor should have systems and processes in place for each project. Ask them to take you through what a typical job looks like from start to finish. Their process should demonstrate attention to detail, project management skills, and good communication practices.
Assess Their Communication Style
Pay close attention to how responsive and personable contractors are during interviews. Do they listen attentively to your ideas and concerns? Clear communication is key to a smooth renovation process. Any evasiveness or impatience are red flags.
Confirm Availability and Timelines
Be sure to find out whether contractors have the bandwidth to take on your project in your desired timeline. Reputable firms should be able to provide you with estimates of how long specific renovations will take.
Taking the time to thoroughly interview and get quotes from several contractors will help you find the right fit for your renovation.
Check Credentials and Finances
Before officially hiring any contractor, there are several important things you should check. This includes verifying credentials as well as finances.
Follow Up on References
Carefully checking references is vital when evaluating contractors. Contact 2-3 recent customers they provided and ask how satisfied they were with the work. Also, look up online reviews for any additional feedback. This can reveal potential issues the company hasn’t told you about.
Request Proof of Insurance
Any reputable contractor should carry both general liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. Ask to see official proof of both, and verify that their policies are up to date. This protects you in the event of on-site accidents or property damage.
Confirm Registration and Bonding
Check that the contractor is officially registered with the state board and has the proper bonding or guarantees. This ensures recourse for shoddy or incomplete work. Get registration/bonding numbers to verify.
Understand Payment Terms and Schedule
Before signing, know exactly what the payment terms are, including deposit, progress payments, and final payment amounts and timeline. Many ask for 10-30% down with the remainder divided over the course of the project. Get everything in writing.
Taking these steps provides an added layer of protection for your investment and peace of mind about who you are hiring.
Consider Red Flags Carefully
When evaluating contractors, there are a few red flags to watch out for that could indicate potential issues down the road:
Extremely Low Bids
While you certainly want a fair bid, an estimate that seems unusually low could signify a contractor is inexperienced or cutting corners. Make sure you understand exactly what is included.
Rush to Get Signed
Quality contractors are confident in their bids and don’t pressure clients to sign agreements on the spot. Be wary of anyone who seems overly pushy about contracts.
can’t Provide Referrals
A reputable firm should have numerous satisfied past customers they can refer you to. Watch out for those unable or unwilling to provide references.
Doesn’t Carry Insurance
Lack of proper insurance is a sign you could be liable for on-site accidents. Only hire insured professionals.
Vague About Process
Clear communication is a must. Contractors who avoid answering questions or seem vague about timelines/processes should raise concerns.
Paying attention to these possible warning signs can help you avoid problematic contractors and find one you can trust.
Consider Specialty Firms
A general contractor can take on full renovation projects, but for certain specialties you may want to hire specialty firms:
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels
For kitchen or bathroom overhauls, a remodeling firm that focuses specifically on these rooms may offer deeper expertise in layout, storage, functionality, and aesthetics.
Additions
Adding living spaces like master suite additions, sunrooms, or attic conversions calls for detailed structural knowledge. Firms that concentrate on additions may provide greater experience.
Windows and Doors
Companies specializing in replacement windows, entry doors, and the like are fully familiar with the intricacies of these upgrades and the best brands and materials to use.
Pools and Landscaping
For backyard upgrades like pool installation or extensive landscaping, landscape construction companies have the specialized expertise to handle the scope of the work involved and complex permitting processes.
Media and Technology
Integrating tech like whole-home audiovisual networks, home theaters, and smart home tech requires specialized knowledge. Firms focusing on these systems are best equipped to seamlessly incorporate cutting-edge tech.
While a general contractor can still capably oversee many of these projects, specialty firms bring deeper expertise in their given niche.
Prepare for the Project
Once you’ve found the right contractor, there are some things you should do to prepare for the renovation process:
Have a Detailed Contract
Never begin work without an extensive contract in place that outlines the full scope of work, payment schedule, timeline, contingencies for delays, and more. Both parties should review contract terms thoroughly before signing.
Secure Any Permits
Depending on the nature of the remodel, permits may be required from the city building department or other local agencies. The contractor can usually pull the proper permits. It’s best to clarify this question early.
Make Arrangements
Figure out arrangements for accessing utilities, parking, bathroom use, and the like ahead of time. Discuss rules about workers using parts of your home during the project. Address any security issues as well.
Remove Valuables
Take out any items of value that could get damaged or “go missing” during work. Also move furniture and other belongings away from renovation zones.
Install Protective Barriers
Have heavy plastic barriers installed to protect areas not being renovated from dust and debris. This will save cleanup time later.
Taking these preparatory steps helps set up an efficient, smooth-running renovation from start to finish.
Maintain Good Communication
Communicating effectively with your contractor throughout the renovation can help minimize issues down the road:
Initiate Regular Updates
Don’t just wait to hear from the contractor—request regular updates on progress and timing. Ideally you want weekly face-to-face meetings.
Discuss Any Changes
Be proactive about discussing any changes that come up—to the original plan, budget, or schedule. Get approvals for additions in writing.
Address Problems Immediately
Should any issues with subpar workmanship or delays arise, bring them to the contractor right away. Nipping problems in the bud is key.
See the Bigger Picture
While focusing on project details, maintain a collaborative big-picture view. A solutions-oriented, team mentality makes for a smoother process.
Show Appreciation
Don’t forget to show appreciation to workers for a job well done or for diligence during a challenging issue. A little good will goes a long way.
Consistent, open communication ensures you stay actively involved and helps prevent misunderstandings.
Pay Attention to Work Quality
As exciting as it is to see your remodel take shape, you need to keep a close eye on the quality of the work:
Perform Regular Inspections
Inspect work frequently, not just upon completion.stopping problems early before they compound issues. Have workers correct any subpar work immediately.
Check References of Subcontractors
Vet any subcontractors the general contractor brings in.Check their references just as you did initially with the general contractor.
Review Products/Materials
Closely review any products or materials slated for use in your project. Research brands you’re unfamiliar with. Don’t let corners be cut.
Document Everything
Keep a detailed log and take photos recording the full renovation process, especially any problems or deviations. This provides backup if disputes arise.
Trust Your Instincts
Don’t doubt yourself if you have nagging feelings something is amiss. Speak up right away and don’t let concerns drag on.
Staying vigilant ensures you get the top-quality remodel you’re investing in. Don’t hesitate to demand fixes for subpar work.
Handle Payment Strategically
How you structure payments is an important consideration:
Stick to The Schedule
Make payments exactly as outlined in the contract as work is completed. Don’t pay substantially ahead of schedule.
Link Payments to Inspections
Tie payments to passing inspections of work phases.This provides motivation to meet inspection criteria.
Hold Back Final Payment
Don’t make full final payment until you have thoroughly inspected the finished project and addressed any lingering issues with contractors. Holding back remaining payment is powerful motivation to complete the process properly.
Use Escrow if Needed
Large down payments can go into an escrow account, to be released to the contractor in increments as stipulated by a predetermined schedule.
Pay With Checks
A paper trail of payments made is helpful documentation. Paying with checks (not cash) provides this documentation.
Strategic payment structuring gives you leverage if contractor performance issues arise. Protect yourself.
Address Problems Assertively
While you hope everything goes smoothly, be prepared to address any issues head-on if they do arise:
Put it in Writing
Document any problems in writing. Email creates a record of what was conveyed and when. Follow up face-to-face.
Be Firm Yet Fair
Don’t simply complain—be assertive in requiring remedies. But also avoid unfounded accusations or anger—stay solution-focused.
Know Your Options
Understand options like mediation, arbitration, lien waivers, withholding payment, or even legal recourse that can motivate resolution. Don’t hesitate to use them if needed.
Don’t Dwell on Missteps
Focusing too heavily on past failings won’t get a project back on track. Collaboratively develop solutions and move forward.
Complete the Project
As frustrating as challenges are, see the process through to the end. Halting work halfway rarely ends well for either party.
Assertively yet professionally addressing issues gets them fixed, prevents festering, and gets the remodel back on a positive path.
Conclusion
Finding the right home renovation contractor for your project provides the foundation for achieving the home of your dreams. Taking the time to thoroughly research potential contractors, vet them carefully, and make strategic hiring decisions helps set your project up for success. Keeping a close eye on the work and maintaining excellent communication ensures ideal outcomes. Paying attention to details while keeping the big picture in mind leads to satisfying renovations. With the right contractor, you can look forward to many years of enjoying your beautifully updated home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring Home Renovation Contractors
- How do I find reputable home renovation contractors in my area?
The best ways to find reputable local contractors are to ask neighbors and friends for referrals, look at reviews on sites like Yelp and Angi, check ratings on the Better Business Bureau website, and contact professional trade organizations for recommendations.
- What questions should I ask potential contractors before hiring them?
Important questions to ask them include how long they’ve been in business, what specific projects they specialize in, what their process is like from start to finish, whether they carry insurance, whether they can provide referrals, and how they structure payments.
- What qualifications and certifications should contractors have?
Reputable contractors should have current licenses, bonding, and insurance. They should be registered with the state. Trade certifications can demonstrate specialized expertise. Membership in professional organizations also shows credibility.
- What are red flags I should watch out for?
Red flags include extremely low bids, inability to provide references, lack of proper insurance, evasiveness about processes and timelines, high-pressure sales tactics, and reluctance to put full agreements in writing.
- Should I ask for references and check them?
Yes, you should request 2-3 recent customer references and follow up by contacting all of them. Speaking directly to past clients provides invaluable insights into the quality of contractors’ work.
- How can I protect myself financially when hiring contractors?
Strategies like paying in installments tied to timeline/inspections rather than big upfront sums, using escrow accounts, paying by check, and withholding a percentage of payment until the end can offer financial protection and leverage if issues arise.
- What should I do if problems come up with the contractor during a remodel?
Document issues in writing with photos, be assertive in requiring remedies in a professional manner, know your legal options, focus on solutions rather than dwelling on missteps, and see the project through to completion for best outcomes.
- How do I ensure I get what I paid for with contractors?
Carefully checking licenses/credentials, maintaining excellent communication, frequently inspecting work and demanding fixes as needed, reviewing products/materials thoroughly, documenting everything, and strategically structuring payments gives you greater assurance of stellar final results.
- Should I consider specialty firms for certain types of renovations?
For intricate projects like kitchen overhauls, backyard upgrades, additions, or integrating home tech, specialty firms that concentrate specifically on these niches often offer greater expertise and experience.
- How can I prepare my home before the renovation work begins?
Ways to prepare include clearing out valuables/fragile items, installing protective barriers, making sure permits are secured, having an exhaustive contract, arranging access/parking/bathrooms for workers, addressing security issues, and moving furniture from renovation areas.