Choosing A Contractor For A Home Improvement Project

We all like them on our birthdays, but the last thing you want from a contractor is a surprise

. This is the reason why when you hire someone to remodel your home, everything should be in writing.

While getting a deal from a friend, neighbor, or relative may be tempting, keep in mind the cost of loosing that bond should something go awry during the building process.

The best way to choose a contractor is through recommendations from friends or neighbors. Licensing, insurance, and availability should be some of your considerations, once you've narrowed down your options. Your candidate should have at least two names and phone numbers of past clients who can vouch for his workmanship. When you contact the listed references, ask if the job was done well, the budget was met, and if the project was completed on time.

Once you have at least three candidates that pass the test, make an appointment to meet them at your home. If you find them abrasive or impatient with your questions, go to the next one on the list. This is because if there are problems in the middle of the project, you would want a contractor who is easy to talk to. It is also important to know if he is personally supervising the construction or if someone else will be there on his behalf.

A formal bid based on the plans and material specifications should be required. Some contractors would low-ball others just to get jobs, so be wary if one bid is much lower than the rest, you might not get the best quality work.

Once you've made your selection, now comes the most important part: the written contract.

A very detailed scope of work to be performed should be included in the contract. The contract should clearly define as to Who would be responsible for the demolition, cleanup, and trash related issues of the project, as well as any fees associated with permits and inspection.

A detailed list of all materials to be used in the project should also be included as well as a written provision stating that the contractor must have your written consent before implementing any changes in the type of material or making any additional necessary purchases.

Beware of words that refer to materials of "equivalent" value that might be a cheaper substitute of what you are actually paying for. A trip to the home improvement store would do you good, learn the difference between birch and maple wood if you're installing new kitchen cabinets for example. Pick out and price any plumbing fixtures or floor coverings that will be part of the job so you and the contractor are always on the same page.

Payment schedules, start and completion dates should be stated clearly in the contract. If a contractor requires a deposit before starting the job, 10 percent is appropriate. Payments made should be in stages as the work progresses, this ensures that the contractor s motivated to keep things moving. It would be a big mistake to pay by the hour or day since the contractor might deliberately delay the project to milk out a bigger fee from you. The contract also should state you will be provided with copies of all invoices for materials.

Finally, a thorough inspection should be conducted before you can sign off on the project and make the last payment. This would ensure that you receive good quality work within the expected time frame.

by: Brett Lamb

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