| So you've made the decision to remodel your house. | | | | How many years have they been in business? Do |
| The next thing you need to do is find the right | | | | they have adequate insurance? Is the work going to |
| contractor, one who will be able to complete the job | | | | be done by them, or are they going to hire |
| on time and within budget. Hiring a good contractor | | | | subcontractors? Who provides their supplies? Be sure |
| involves doing a little research, but doing so will save | | | | to contact suppliers and subcontractors, to ask |
| you from possible problems later on. | | | | whether they have a good relationship with the |
| No matter what kind of work you are getting done, | | | | contractor in question. Check references of at least |
| you should always check with the local builders' | | | | three of their past clients to see if the contractor did |
| association for a list of good contractors. Using this list, | | | | good work, finished in the specified timeframe, and |
| ask the local licensing board if the contractors are | | | | came in on budget. |
| licensed, or if anyone has filed complaints against them. | | | | When hiring a residential contractor, always draw up a |
| The Better Business Bureau is another good resource | | | | written contract. Make sure everything is spelled out in |
| to inquire about contractor information. After the | | | | the contract, including what the project is, how long it is |
| research is complete, gather bids from three different | | | | going to take, how much it is going to cost, and a list of |
| contractors. Don't always just pick the lowest bid; a bid | | | | materials. This is a time-consuming process, but it's |
| that is too low is a warning sign that something is | | | | worthwhile, because having a reliable and skilled |
| wrong. You have to remember that the contractor still | | | | contractor will make the remodeling process go |
| needs to pay for the supplies and the costs of labor. | | | | smoothly, saving you money as well as possible |
| After you have narrowed your list down to three | | | | problems in the long run. |
| possible candidates you can start asking questions. | | | | |