Choosing a Contractor
Choosing a contractor for home
projects can be intimidating...
Who
will respond the fastest?
Who
will not leave me hanging if a warranty issue arises?
Who
is
honest?
Who is the cheapest?
First,
ask your friends, family and neighbors who they use and why.
Second, complaints against a company might be listed with agencies like
the Better Business Bureau. Also, being a member of the BBB has to
do with $$ not with quality. Members can still have complaints against
them, and may not always be the best choice.
Third, don't be fooled by the cheapest guy. Most of the time there is a
reason for why they are the cheapest.
Ask them these core questions before hiring them:
Will they obtain the appropriate permits with the Building department?
If so then an inspector will inform you if the work has been completed properly.
If not, there may be fines and other consequences.
Will they charge you sales tax?
If not, you could incur "User Tax" liabilities.
Are they licensed for the work needed?
Do they carry liability insurance to cover any possible damages to your home or
property?
You can ask the contractor for proof of coverage.
Do they carry worker's comp insurance?
If not, will they sign a waiver to protect you in the case that a contractor or
subcontractor becomes injured on your property?
After selecting companies
based on these criteria, shop based on your preferred brand, price, promotional
offers, response time, warranty/guarantees, and who is most comfortable to deal
with.
Choosing the right contractor can save you unexpected and expensive
consequences.
Don Berry, President
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