Deciding which contractor you will hire to complete a home improvement project, such as enclosing your pool or patio, for instance, isn’t something to take lightly. You want to make sure that the finished product is all that you plan for it to be. Failing to do your due diligence could risk the overall outcome of your project—among other things.
Worst case scenarios? You could get scammed out of your money. And, even worse, be held responsible for an accident on your property.
We’ve put together a list of tips for finding the right contractor for the job so you can make your choice with confidence.
What does your HOA have to say?
Local homeowners associations (HOA) are known for being extremely rigid regarding rules and regulations. If your subdivision is regulated by an HOA, check in with them to determine whether or not any specific requirements must be followed regarding size or design. You may discover that the structure is forbidden altogether.
If that’s the case, addressing the association and proving your case as to why the rules should be revised could enact change that will benefit your entire community!
Think local
You will likely get the best value for your dollar by hiring locally. Contractors whose businesses are established out of the area will be sure to figure travel expenses into the mix. Ask friends and family who have recently had work done who they used and if they were happy with the result. If their answer is yes and you like what you see, then, your search may be over!
You could also check local review boards, but take what you read with a grain of salt. For instance, if a contractor is receiving 5-star reviews and suddenly receives a very poor write-up, odds are someone is posting a false review on purpose for whatever reason they saw fit.
It’s suggested that you get at least three estimates as to what the job will cost and then narrow it down from there.
Ask for references
A contractor that refuses to share references is a red flag as to the reliability of their work. Some homeowners even ask to see a build that’s in progress.
Checking in with the Better Business Bureau can yield information—good or bad—that you may find important.
Licensed, bonded, and insured
You want to work with someone who is a licensed contractor in your area. It’s also important that you ask if they are bonded and insured. Failure to ensure they have these things covered could leave you, as the homeowner, holding the bag should an accident occur on your property.
Warning signs
Unfortunately, scam artists often pose as legitimate contractors with their only intent being to take your money and run. Should the person you are considering hiring present any of the following signs, you high tail it out of the conversation instead!
They are:
- Can’t provide proof of insurance or licensing
- Wants you to sign something before you hire them
- Doesn’t provide a contract
- Requires cash payments
- Vastly underbids others or offers “special pricing”
- Can’t provide customer references
- It’s hard to reach them
- Instructs you to obtain any local building permits
The contract
Once you’ve made your decision, secure a contract before any work begins on your property. Make sure it includes everything you and your contractor have discussed in writing. It should be clear and well-written. Some homeowners go so far as to have a lawyer look over the proposed contract before proceeding.
Your contract should include:
- An in-depth description of the work to be done and what each item costs
- When payment is expected
- Estimated start and completion dates
- Guarantees and warranties—these should be written into the contract and specify what they entail, who is responsible for the guarantee, and when guarantees and warranties expire.
- Signatures of both parties
If there is a change to the contract, it must be acknowledged by both parties to be valid. If for any reason, you decide to cancel the contract, follow the contract’s cancellation clause. Also, written notification from you to the contractor should be sent via registered mail to ensure you have proper proof of the cancellation.
Start a job file
Keeping all pertinent information regarding your project in one place is a really good idea. Your folder should contain the contract, any change orders, building plans and specs, bills, invoices, proof of payment, certificates of insurance, and any correspondence with the contractor. That way you have easy reference should you need to look anything up.
If you’re putting up an enclosure
You may want to look into working with a contractor that creates customized screens. Customized screens surround you in scenes that envelop your senses with vivid colors and imagery. Your possibilities are endless—and the results are nothing short of amazing.
Your backyard getaway will quickly become a favored spot for family and friends to gather.
Looking forward to the end result
Choosing a contractor doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Performing due diligence beforehand is worth the time and effort. You will feel confident that you’ve made the right choice. Moreover, once that decision is made and the contract signed, all that’s left to do is wait for the start date to arrive!
And envision how awesome your home is going to look after the build is complete, of course. We hope you don’t have long to wait!