Home renovation

2009-02-24T15:21:00.000-08:00

How to chose the right contractor
In this article we will bring you some range of tools to help you have a better experience when you hire a contractor and make sure the job is done right.
The first thing you need to know is if the company is licensed and insured.
Why we need to know that? Simple ,being licensed basically states that the contractor has the knowledge to build or repair what you are looking to have done.
No need to ask the license number, the only thing you need is to know is the company name.
We can find out about the company status by Clicking the following link:
New york Department Of Building
After clicking fill out the company name on the second paragraph, then chose the company specialization.
In this page you can see the company details such as insurance expiration date and license validation.
Commercial general liability insurance is not required, however, it covers damage to your property, that’s why its strongly recommended to hire contractor who has liability insurance.

After checking paper work status it is strongly recommended to ask the contractor the following questions:
• Do you remain on the project until the job is completed?
• Can I speak with some of your former clients?
• Do you belong to the Better Business Bureau?
• What brands and grades of materials do you typically use?

The next step after choosing the right contractor is the contract, this step might be a bit complicated some homeowners recognize what craftsmanship means, quality and reliability, second to none.
They are getting a contractor that takes pride and stands by their work, that’s why one of the most important things is timing.
Make sure that on the contract the starting date and the ending date will appear.
Out of my experience some contractors who don't have crews or doesn't have enough crews take other jobs and don’t have time to complete your job.
It is normal when the job takes above the estimated time lets say few days or even 2-3 weeks extra in case its a big job, but sometimes it takes few months above then the estimated time, and that’s the reason you have to make sure that the estimated job completion date will appear on the contract.
Most importantly, when you having the contract sign up the contractor will stand by it.
There for try to include as much details as you can about the scope of work.
For instance: one of the section in the contract is "build up a wall 12ft in living room using half inch sheetrock and 2 by 3 studs" sounds great ? Not really, make sure it will be taped plastered and paint with primer and 2 coats of paint.

Another important thing in the contract is break down phases, I would say it one of the most important things if not the most important. Ask the contractor to break the contract down to phases
For instance: you would like to remodel your kitchen and bathroom, make sure that the contractor will include the price for the kitchen remodeling separately and the bathroom remodeling separately.
The reason for that is because lets say the contractor started working on your bathroom and you not satisfied of his work and you decide that you not interested in continuing with this project , at this point you should know the amount to prorate.

Another important topic is payment schedule: the payment has to be portion to the job phases.
It is strongly recommend scheduling the payment as of work phases For instance X amount of money after completing bathroom remodeling, X amount of money at the beginning of kitchen renovation.
Always make sure to live part of the money after job completion and satisfaction
Poor quality leaves a bad taste that lasts longer then the temporary satisfaction of a low price.
If you are a homeowner that recognizes this, you will have a pleasant experience with all of your home projects and will build a trusting relationship with your contractor and will be happy to hire him again.
For more info: General Contractor Remodeling NY

Why to take a risk ?

Home renovation