Hiring a contractor to do renovations and/or start from scratch requires considerable work on your part if the job is to be done in a timely and satisfactory manner. Sitting down with them and putting, in writing, the work to be done as well as the total cost of the project is very important.
In order to reduce stress as well as wear and tear, it is important that all supplies and materials be included in the original quote. While buying materials yourself may appear to be a cost savings idea, it’s important to remember that contractors often have contacts and get reduced rates with suppliers because of their volume of purchases with the store. A more important concern is the level of knowledge required when purchasing supplies. To know what type, size, or kind of material is required by law and for a sound result takes years of experience and is beyond the capability of most homeowners. Additionally, anything not used will need to be returned or exchanged which can also become quite a headache. This is a waste of time and money. From experience I find the following very important when working with a contractor:
- Compare prices. Get bids from no less than three contractors in writing and let them know in advance your expectations and budget. If you like the contractor with the highest price, but get a lower bid, check with the first one and see if they are willing to negotiate.
- Negotiate. Do not be afraid to bargain and try to get a lower price. If work is scarce a contractor is usually willing to do the job for less, but make sure they are reputable and have references that you can call.
- Paper work. Get everything in writing, including the fact that they will furnish the materials. With everything from putting in new hinges, to putting on a roof, it is important that every possible contingency be included. Add on charges for extra work can be a killer.
- Property Irregularities. If you have had an inspection on a property be sure any irregularities found are included in the contract. Since the residence will be taken apart anyway, now is the time to fix any small things that came up on the original inspection report.
- References. Check the contractor’s credentials and references. This includes not only property owners, but the state licensing board and better business bureau as they will have records of any complaints made. This is very important to be sure the contractor you select really knows what they are doing.
- Building Permits. Find out yourself, from the county or city building departments, just what permits are needed. To test a contractor’s knowledge ask them if the job needs a permit. If you’ve found out it does require a permit and the contractor says it doesn’t, be wary. Once the contractor has been hired, double-check to make sure the permits have been obtained then post them in a visible location. There have been cases when an entire deck had to be removed, bathroom torn out, and construction was halted in the middle of a job because the proper permits were not obtained.
- Needed Materials. Make sure all materials needed are included in the contract.
A good contractor is a gem. They will get right in, do the job, guarantee it, and ensure you get the most reasonable price possible. Most contractors fall into this category because they know that a good job means references to other people.
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