Some contractors are notorious for being quick to start a job but slow to finish it. Finding a reputable contractor is worth taking the time to do. Here are some tips from homeowners and experts.
Good contractors are always busy. Dont be surprised if you find them booked months in advance. If by chance you come across a contractor who happens to be in-between jobs and can start your project right away, make sure you have a clear understanding that they will work on the job steadily until it is finished, not just one or two days a week. You might even have a deadline written into the contract based on the estimate the contractor gives you.
The best way to find a competent contractor is through word of mouth. Ask your neighbors, friends and coworkers whom they have used in the past. This doesnt necessarily mean they will be the right contractor for you, but its a good place to start. Reasons the highly recommended contractor might not work out are: they do not do the type of work you request, their time frame is not in line with yours and their personality is not compatible with yours.
Avoid unscrupulous contractors by recognizing the most common warning signs:
" Request for a large deposit. Reputable contractors only require a 10 to 20 percent down payment.
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" Offer for a one-day special discount. Reputable contractors dont need to go door to door seeking work.
" Refusal to put anything in writing. Always get a written contract outlining the job, including costs and materials.
" Lack of proof of liability insurance. A reputable contractor will have full liability insurance and be able to show you proof of that insurance. Dont ever hire someone who doesnt have insurance, not even to replace a broken window.
" Lack of references. A reputable contractor will be happy to give you the names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. Call two or three of them.
" No phone number or address. Even contractors who work from their home should be willing to give you their address. Do not accept a P.O. Box as a business address and ask for more than a cell or pager phone number. You will want to be able to reach your contractor easily.
If a misunderstanding or other situation should arise causing the contractor to leave the job unfinished, take steps to minimize future problems by making a list of issues that need your immediate attention, such as covering exposed materials and addressing any safety issues.
Take pictures of the project for future reference before hiring another contractor to finish the work. Inventory and document what materials are on hand, so youll be able to relay that information to the next contractor. Youll have to start the hiring process from scratch again, interviewing contractors, getting references and asking for another contract in writing. Some contractors may be reluctant to step up to the plate not knowing what transpired before them, so a brief explanation of the situation may also be in order.
Good contractors are busy and you may have to wait a while before they can start your project. Hiring a contractor that you feel comfortable with, however, is very important to any remodeling job. You dont want to go around second-guessing every move they make. Remodeling projects can be an inconvenience, but by working with a good contractor, they can go smoothly.
