Find the correct contractor for your remodeling projects
I’m sure you have all heard horror stories from friends or acquaintances about their experiences when they remodeled their home. Or, perhaps you have experienced it yourself. It doesn’t have to be that way. If you know what to expect from a prospective contractor and the remodeling process it can actually be a pleasant experience.
Here are some questions to keep in mind when choosing a remodeler:
Can I trust this person in my home and around my family?
Trust your instincts — you need to feel comfortable with anyone working in your home. Remember, you will be sharing your home with this person and other workers for the duration of the project. Do they communicate and will they keep me informed?
It is important that your remodelers listen to your needs and wants and not assume they know what you want. There should be communication throughout the project to provide updates, address issues or answer questions. Can they produce a quality project?
All contractors think they do quality work; some even consider themselves to be the best. But in reality the only opinion that matters is yours.
Ask the contractor’s references about the quality of work and if possible, go and see it. In addition, check their website to view project photos or ask to see a portfolio of their projects. How long will the project take?
It is difficult to predict how long a project may take. Since most contractors use various trade contractors that are not his employees there can be delays in getting a trade on the job the day it is ready due to their scheduling.
But all reputable remodeling contractors want to complete your project as quickly as possible while still delivering a quality project. Suggested questions when calling references
» How was your experience in working with the remodeling company?
» What did you like the most about working with the company? » What did you like the least? » Did the workers show up on time? » Was the project finished on time? If not, why?
» Did they provide a cell phone number for emergencies?
» Were there any items that needed to be changed or fixed after the project was complete? If so, how was the follow up? Did you get the results you expected? » Would you hire that company again? If you are considering a home remodeling project, the most important decision you can make is selecting a professional home remodeler to do the job.
Look for contractors that are members of professional associations such as the Greater Houston Builders Association Remodelers Council.
This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association. The Remodelers Council is dedicated to promoting professionalism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certification and service to the Houston community. To reach the author directly, email bob@riverstonebuilders.com. For information on this article, please contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsulting.net. To join the council or to find a professional remodeler in your area, please visit www.ghba.org.