Better Business Bureau offers tips for hiring a home remodeler
Are you looking to remodel your home? You’re not alone. In 2019, 90% of all homeowners were planning to renovate their home within the next two years according to Trulia. Use of the Better Business Bureau supports this trend. BBB.org noted a 26% increase of roofing site traffic, a 24% increase of home improvement site traffic, 15% increase for general contractors and a 7% increase for remodelers. By the second half of 2021, spending on home improvement projects is expected to be $337 billion.
Better Business Bureau offers these tips for hiring a home improvement contractor:
Make a plan for what you want done, keeping your budget in mind. Be sure to be upfront about your budget with potential contractors.
■ Get recommendations. For instance, ask friends and family who they’ve used in the past. You can also contact the National Association of the Remodeling
Industry (NARI) for a list of members in your area.
■ Meet with potential contractors. Do face-to-face interviews to make sure you’re hiring someone you trust.
■ Get estimates from three different remodelers that include materials and service costs. Remember that the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best bid.
■ Check out credentials. Hire a contractor who is licensed, bonded and insured as appropriate. Determine if the contractor is a member of a professional association that has standards or a code of ethics.
■ Ask questions. For instance, ask for references and call them to ask about their experience.
Ask how much work will be subcontracted and ask for information on subcontractors. Ask about permits needed and who will get them. If a contractor avoids pulling the permits himself, it’s a red flag.
■ Review all sample materials to make sure you like them before they’re installed.
■ Avoid door-to-door contractors. You don’t want to hire anyone on the spot. Always take time to do your research.
■ Get everything in writing. Be sure you have a contract that includes time, cost, payment arrangements, your contractor’s license number, a description of the project, as well as names of parties involved in case of any disputes. Keep this after the project is complete.
■ Be cautious making payments. Never pay in full up front. Stagger your payments so your final payment is not due until the work is complete and you have fully inspected it. Do not pay your contractor in cash. Pay with a credit card so you can dispute the charges if problems develop. Request a receipt marked “Paid in Full” when the job is completed and your final payment is made.
For more information about hiring a home remodeler, visit BBB.org or call 937-222-5825 or 800776-5301. BBB can provide lists of BBB Accredited contractors and Business Profiles on ones you may be considering.