How hard can it be? You want a new kitchen, bath, basement, roof. They want a new client. You agree on the budget and then live happily-ever-after.
End of story…right?
For anyone that genuinely believes this is true – there’s no reason to read on.
But, if you have concerns, questions…FEAR, there’s a simple lesson on what you need to know to be the “dream” client for the “perfect” contractor.
Tell them what you have in mind
You’re the boss; you’re the one driving this process. Before you call in a contractor, make a roadmap so they know what direction you want them to go…and where you expect them to end up. Take some time and really think about your project. Collect pictures of ideas you have seen that you like. Talk about amenities and products you have an interest in. Help them see your vision.
Get ideas and bids from several firms
Find out how contractors stack up when compared:
- Who had the best ideas?
- Who gave you valuable information?
- Who has the best value?
- Who did you feel comfortable with?
- Who did you feel uncomfortable with?
- Who did you click with?
Pay attention to what your gut is telling you. You’ve heard it before — often the cheapest isn’t the best way to go.
Check ‘em out
Get a full company name and address. Make sure any contractor you consider has current insurance coverage…then get their insurance policy numbers and check their BBB rating…THEN verify that they are current. Research any formal complaints or legal actions that have occurred or are pending.
Find out history and habits
Take time to visit the projects they’ve done. See their work firsthand. Visit their Website and Social Media. Talk to past customers. Can the contractor under consideration show you work similar to what you’re interested in doing? Are they specialists in one particular room (like a certified kitchen or bath expert) or are they generalists (they claim they do everything)?
First impressions
Here are some questions you should ask yourself:
- Was your phone call returned promptly?
- Do company vehicles look safe, clean, and professional?
- Did you meet with the contractor/owner or a salesman?
- Were they articulate and did they listen to what you said and understand your needs/values/wants?
- Were your questions answered fully?
What you see and experience in that first meeting is usually what you get – pay attention!
Know exactly what you’re paying for
Before signing on the dotted line, be aware of EVERY. SINGLE. CONTRACT. DETAIL. Know start date and end dates. Make sure all permits and fees are listed (and know that your contractor will handle them, but you are LEGALLY responsible!)
Ask if any subcontractors will be used and, if so, ask for their insurance and get a warranty on their workmanship. Make sure there’s wording in the contract that talks about who will pay for the subcontractors. There are horror stories of contractors not paying the subcontractors and the homeowners have a lien placed on their house.
Have materials and amenities to be used listed with specific product names and details. Make sure the services your contractor talked about doing are clearly listed. Payment terms should also be clear. If either party defaults, there should be wording regarding the consequences.
Set boundaries
Establishing some ground rules and have a mutual understanding of expectations. Often, it’s the small stuff that makes the big difference in your satisfaction level. Discuss parking, clean up, smoking, bathroom use, music, hours acceptable for work to be performed, etc.