13 important questions

 

If your contractor can’t deliver ANY ONE of these items, keep searching.

Before selecting a contractor for any home project, take the time to ask these 13 important questions:

1. Is the contractor properly licensed?

2. Will the contractor show you proof of General Liability and Worker’s Compensation insurance?

3. Does the contractor have an address? Post Office box numbers may make it harder to find locate contractors should trouble arise.

4. How long have they been in business? Statistics show that the majority of new contractors go out of business within three years.

5. Does the Better Business Bureau have a record of complaints against them?

6. Are they members of professional associations that promote education and professionalism in the industry?

7. Will the contractor give you a list of references?

8. Can you talk to the contractor, and does he listen to what you say?

9. Are they familiar with local building regulations and codes, and will they obtain the necessary permits and give you copies?

10. Will the contractor guarantee all materials and workmanship?

11. Will the contractor request your written approval before making changes that affect your cost (for example substitutions in material and/or workmanship)?

12. Will they arrange for cleanup and removal of debris from the premises, both on a daily basis and after the job is complete?

13. Will the contractor provide a start and completion date?