Are you looking to have some work done on your home? While some of us might be handy enough to tackle some DIY home projects, the majority of us need to hire a professional when it comes to doing any major work or renovations.
But how do you know who to hire? Let's take a look at five tips for hiring a contractor.
1. Take Word of Mouth Recommendations
Do you absolutely love the renovated bathroom job your neighbor had done? If so, ask her what contractor she used. Sometimes, the best way to get exactly what you want is to talk to people who have had similar projects completed for them. It can also give you a sense of whether or not a certain contractor was worth working with and what type of prices you might expect.
2. Search Online for Contractors
The internet is one of the best ways to find contractors in your area. You'll want to search for businesses with good ratings and positive reviews.
You might also consider using a business like Networx, which aims to connect potential customers with general contractors in their local area. All you do is answer a few questions about what type of contractor you're looking for, and you'll be able to get quotes from contractors in your area. Based on Networx reviews, this can be a great way to find the contractor who best suits your needs.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends getting at least three quotes from contractors for the project you're hiring for. It might be tempting to go with the lowest quote. But since home projects and renovations are no joking matter, it might be best to go with a higher quote to ensure that you'll be receiving quality service. The BBB points out that an extremely low-ball quote could indicate that the contractor is either cutting corners or might not actually understand the project you want completed.
4. Be Sure to Hire a Qualified Professional
Before hiring a contractor to do any sort of work on your home, it's important to make sure they can legally provide work for you. Make sure that you're only hiring a contractor from an accredited business.
Check with your state, city, and county to find out what types of licenses are required. In addition to any required permits, a contractor should have liability insurance, property damage coverage, and worker's compensation. Be sure to request proof of any licenses or other required documents before hiring a contractor.
5. Ask Contractors About Their Experience
You've found a contractor who you're interested in hiring. Now what?
Whether you're looking to add a front porch, in need of a new roof, or looking to upgrade your kitchen to impress at your next Friendsgiving, it's important to ask the contractor about their experience. Even better, ask to see their portfolio and ask for references from their previous customers. A qualified contractor will be proud of their work and confident enough in their abilities to let their work speak for itself.
Hiring a contractor for any home project can be a major investment. It's important to make sure you're hiring a qualified professional who has expertise in the type of work you want done. The last thing you want is to spend a fortune on low-quality work.
These are just some tips on how to choose a contractor for your next home project. There are so many great professionals out there to choose from. It's all about finding the one who can make your house even more of a home than it already is.
