Top 5 Tips for Hiring a Home Improvement Contractor

You’ve figured out your home improvement to-do list for the year. Now you’re ready to start lining up pros to do the work. Of course, hiring a general contractor for a whole-house renovation is more involved than finding a handyman to make a few spot repairs. But anytime you bring a service pro into your home, thoroughness is key. The following tips from HomeAdvisor will make sure you’re checking every box.

1. Confirm Credentials

Ask to see a copy of the professional’s trade license to verify that it is current and in compliance with any applicable state and local (township, city, county, etc.) level requirements. Also, confirm the professional is appropriately insured and bonded.

2. Do Your Homework

Before you hire a contractor, get 2-3 bids for the project. Read ratings and reviews on sites like HomeAdvisor to see what other homeowners have had to say about a pro’s work.

3. Do a Gut Check

This is especially important on major projects, say a kitchen renovation or family room addition. As you’re meeting with prospective contractors, make sure you’re seeing eye to eye on the goals of the project and that you have good communication and rapport. This is the start of a long relationship, so it’s essential to have chemistry, trust, and respect.

4. Pay with a Paper Trail

Pay the service professional with a credit card or check, not cash, and only pay the service professional or company that you were referred to. Do not make large deposits or upfront payments. If you pay for supplies, be sure they are stored at your home and you have a receipt.

5. Keep Written Records of Everything

Get it in writing—this includes proof of licensing, contracts, invoices, proof of payment, progress photos, and all project-related correspondence.

Follow these five steps, and your chances of finding a top home pro for your project needs will go way up. Once the work gets underway, be sure to check in frequently with the team and keep the lines of communication open. Also check out this article on 10 Simple Tips for Hiring a Contractor. Afterwards, assuming you’re happy with the result, share the positive experience with an online review. The pro will thank you for it, and they’ll be eager to take you on as a valued repeat customer on any future projects.

Source: HomeAdvisor