subject: Tips For Choosing The right Builders For Your Project [print this page] If you"ve just started the search for the "ideal" builder to provide maintenance work for your home, then you"ve probably noticed there are a lot to choose from. For example, type the words "home renovations" into Google and you"ll have endless building websites pop up, all making the same claims and all trying to grab your attention and win your contract.
It can be very confusing and extremely difficult to make a decision among them. It"s even harder to make a good decision that ensures your renovation turns out just the way you want it. To make it easier and to ensure a more informed decision, ask your prospective builders the following questions before you commit yourself to a contract:
How many years" experience do you have?
You want a professional who knows what they"re doing, provides quality workmanship and will ensure the renovation meets your expectations. Suffice to say, the more experience your builder has, the better they"ll be at meeting these objectives.
Do you offer free quotes?
Be very wary of any building company that doesn"t offer free, no-obligation quotes. Offering free quotes is a very common and almost expected part of the pricing process in this industry, and anyone who doesn"t provide this service may be trying to get money out of you for nothing.
Will there be any extra costs?
The last thing you want is to settle on an agreed price at the beginning, only to have the builder suddenly surprise you with an array of hidden "extras" at the end that push you over budget. Be scrupulous in the pricing negotiations before the work is started and outright ask if they predict any possible extra costs.
Can I see a portfolio of previous work or testimonials?
It is completely acceptable to want to see some sort of "proof" of a builder"s previous work. In fact, it"s probably a good idea to do so. See it like a job interview "" a portfolio is like a resume and testimonials are a referee.
How soon can you get this done?
If you have a deadline which must be followed, double check that the company in question can meet it. If they say they can"t, you may need to be more flexible or keep looking till you find a builder who can.
