Are you on the fence about whether you should hire a remodeling contractor? Choosing the right contractor to remodel your home is important since you want to make sure that your specialist is qualified to take on the job. Additionally, you want to find a contractor that is easy to work with. You should only be considering home remodeling contractors or home renovation contractors to take on a home remodeling project.
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Hiring a Remodeling Contractor. Is it Necessary?
If you have a small renovation project, you may be wondering if a contractor is useful or if you can just use a handyman to do the job. A general contractor that is licensed is equipped with the skills and training to take on a job, no matter the size. Their project management and oversight will ensure the job they do is completed safely and within the deadline.
When it comes to handymen, homeowners typically hire them to install hanging doors, cabinetry, windows, or lay flooring. If you decide to hire a handyman, confirm that their license covers the type of work you are requesting them to do. If your project involves plumbing, project management, or electricity, you probably will want to hire a contractor.
Finding the Best Contractor
The best place and the first place you should consider beginning your search for a home remodeling project contractor is via your own circle of family and friends. Maybe your friend had her kitchen remodeled recently. You can always inquire about the contractor your friend used.
If your friends and family don’t have a recommendation, you can try your search online via sites such as HomeAdvisor or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Once you have found some names, you can look at their websites and check out reviews and testimonials on social media or Google. Additionally, you can check out their portfolios for jobs that are similar to yours and check the state licensing page to confirm they are licensed.
Questions to Ask a Home Remodeling Contractor
There are various questions you should consider asking a remodeling contractor.
- Are you licensed and certified? Since every governing body has different regulations in regard to licensing of contractors, the best place to start is with your own state’s licensing website. Ask what special certifications the contractor has.
- Do you carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance? If the contractor does not have the necessary insurance and he becomes injured while working, you will be held liable. Be sure to request a copy of their insurance certificates.
- Will you take care of building permits? A red flag should go off whenever a contractor tells a homeowner they need to get the permit in their name. The person that is responsible for making sure the job is done correctly is the person whose name is on the permit.
- How many jobs have you done like this one? If your job consists of things such as knocking down load-bearing or plumbing lines, you will want someone experienced. Even a bathroom remodeling project that seems pretty straightforward could pose a challenge for a worker who has never remodeled a bathroom before.
- Will there be a dedicated team on this project and will it include sub-contractors? This question lets you know if the same people will come to your home every day or if you will have a consistent flow of new workers. If you want to feel comfortable with strangers in your home, be sure to hire a contractor who only works with a dedicated team to do your job.
