Contractors…Tips For Hiring One You Can Trust!
Improving your home can be such an exciting time. In most cases you are finally doing something you love to the space you are living in. Improvements not only enhance your home for function, they can also add your own personal flair to your living space. A few years ago my family bought a home that was built in the 1940’s and many of the features were original, including the bathroom and the kitchen (oh my!). I love the original charm of the place…think coved ceilings, built in shelves, antique fireplace….but it also means old every-thing-else. Our simple bathroom remodel turned out to be a tear-down to the studs. No one really wants to see their basement from their first floor….right? Given the depth of the improvement needed…it was time to hire some building contractors to renovate my home.
Hiring Contractors You Can Trust
Referrals, referrals, referrals! My first tip is to ask other people you trust for referrals for contractors who have worked in their own homes. This is like an online review x100! Not only can you get a good recommendation, but you can get one from someone you know and love. You can also go to that person’s home and experience the quality, feel and look of the renovation itself. There are a few industries that a referral is especially important for…a good accountant, real estate, and home improvement! If a referral isn’t possible or you don’t have the time to ask around…
Questions To Ask Potential Contractors
Here are my tips:
- Are they bonded, licensed and insured? If this doesn’t seem like a big deal to you, Google home improvement horror stories…eek!
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they have a portfolio or before and after photos you can view online or in print?
- Are they willing to physically come out to your home and give an estimate free of charge? Not photos or a half-thought-out quote over the phone.
- Will they give you an estimate and a timeline in writing?
In Closing
A referral is the gold standard when it comes to allowing someone in your home. That being said…these tips and questions for hiring a trustworthy contractor will set you in the right direction for success. Hire someone you can trust so you can truly enjoy the journey to transformation!
