Finding a remodeler can be an awfull process, if you choose your builder on price or limited referal. With most of 65% of us living stressful lives as it is, the possible addition of stress & disruption is greatly multiplied since you will literally be "living with the workmen" throughout your project. Choosing an established contractor that has house-trained workers and systems that can ease frustration can be a daunting endevor. The following list is a good way to avoid common inadequate contractor pitfalls.
Before you consider having a contractor, ask them these questions..
Do you carry general liability and workman's
insurance of at least $500,000 or more?
Ask him to have his insurance company send their certificated directly
to your home or office.
How long have you been sucessfully remodeling?
Longevity is critical since 50% of all remodelers go out of business during
their 1st year of operations and 90% don't last the first 5 years.
Is this company listed in the White Pages?
If not, they are most likely working out of their pickup truck and may
not be around later to honor the warrenty.
Are you an active member in a local or
national professional trade association?
HBA office Wake Co. 919-233-2033 All Professional companies participate
in these and we subscribe to the strick ethical standards.
What is you N.C. Contractors License Number,
and what dollar level are they licensed to contract?
N.C. Licensing Board for General Contractors is 919-571-4183. They are
a good source to verify contractor limits and status. in residential contracting
there are 3 seperate levels, Limited, Intermediate, and unlimited. They
state the max costs of projects on is allocated to undertake.
Do you have a website or do business by
e-mail?
The internet is a great source for company information as well as keeping
in constant communication.
Have you done this type of project before?
Each time a contractor takes on a new type of project there is always
a learning curve, which is difficult under the best curcumstances.
Are you willing to provide me with a company
profile listing your bank officer and trade references?
If the contractor doesn't measure up pass him by. A professional contractor
will gladly provide such information.
Do you offer a written warranty on your
work?
This is a must !
