If you’re looking for a major home upgrade, whether it’s reinventing your home’s entryway or updating your kitchen, the first step is to hire a contractor.
First and foremost, what is a contractor?
A contractor can be defined as someone who oversees a building’s creation or remodel. A contractor should be licensed with some background in carpentry, HVAC, electric and plumbing. Contractors are responsible for gathering all necessary tools, equipment and building supplies while setting up building permits, utilities and inspections. Contractors essentially are the project manager and middleman between you and your home.
Okay, so how do I choose a contractor?
Choosing a contractor can be stressful, especially if you’ve never had to hire one. There are so many contractors out there, so when choosing one, don’t let yourself get overwhelmed with how many are out there or lost in their brag sheets.
- Do your homework!
As with anything, you should do your research. Start with a simple Google search and check out who’s available in your area. If you’re really struggling, check out the Better Business Bureau to get some recommendations or check up on someone you might be interested in using. - Be straightforward.
While the contractor is in charge of the building or remodeling of your home, you’re still the boss. Ask questions (a lot of them), be honest and straightforward with your expectations, and be confident. - Weigh your options.
Get multiple bids on your project. Ask each of your contenders to complete a set of blueprints and get you an itemized breakdown of the cost of materials, labor, profit margins and all other expenses. - READ.
When choosing a contractor, the most important part of the process is to read the contract. A contract should answer who’s doing the job, any/all costs associated with the project, specific products that are to be used, a detailed timeline, right-to-rescind, workmanship warranty terms, who cleans up and a walk-through before and after the project is complete.
I’ve chosen a contractor. Now what?
You’ve signed your contract with your dream contractor, but you’re not finished yet. Keep all your records including: copies of the contract (signed and unsigned drafts), change orders, correspondence and records of all payments. It may seem silly, but detail every conversation you have with your contractor – phone calls, texts, emails, notes, etc. If there’s a problem during the project, you want to be able to fact-check and/or find any errors in expectations.
Lastly, when the project has been completed, create a sign-off checklist. Ensure that all work stated in the signed contract has been completed, all warranties have been completed, all workers have been paid, the job site has been cleaned up and the final walk-through was completed and approved.
We know choosing a contractor can be difficult and oftentimes overwhelming. But do your research, ask questions and be extremely thorough and you’ll find it’s not as scary as you might think. And it will all be worth it in the end when you’ve got your brand new modern farmhouse kitchen with the deep sink to match or open floor plan home with a wraparound porch.
And always feel free to visit your local home improvement store for guidance on choosing a contractor that’s right for you!
