Hiring a General Contractor to work on your home is a complex decision. The objective is to hire a skillful, knowledgeable, quality worker who can efficiently conclude the project, but how can you ensure you make the right choice? When vetting a good, experienced General Contractor, a good key sign is how soon they provide an itemized list of precisely what you need and of the work they plan on doing.
Whether the GC was recommended by a friend or found through a Google search, here are a few guidelines to help you choose the best fit:
1. Check References and Testimonials
Find out how long they have been in business. When you start your search of vetting general contractors, you do not want an amateur working on any remodeling or construction projects. If they have satisfied customers, they will not hesitate to provide references. This step can give you a wealth of valuable information and is no different than checking previous employers before hiring a new employee for other jobs.
Do not forget to check for their online presence, reviews, and public data on disputes, complaints, lawsuits, or bankruptcies. Even after receiving previous client contact information and references, search for references independently for unfiltered and unbiased information.
2. Verify Licensing and Insurance Policy
The majority of the states will not allow subcontractors and contractors to operate in areas unless licensed, insured, and bonded first. Subcontractors’ licensing information should be acquired and verified according to each state by the construction manager. With this paperwork, the GC will not be held accountable for errors the subcontractors might make nor making you responsible for possible non-site injuries.
Any construction worker should carry two kinds of insurance: worker’s compensation insurance and liability. All states require insurance policies from contractors. Once the insurance company has been provided, look into the insurance company yourself and verify policy limits, and policy number.
Make sure their insurance certificate (COI) is current. You do not want to be held responsible for someone getting hurt due to work being done or damaging your property.
3. Review Their Previous Work, Resources, and Staffing
Make sure the contractor can complete the work, is not overextending themself, and if they specialize in the kind of work you need completing. Check their previous, current, and future work log, how long they have worked with their subcontractors, and if they have staff and resources to keep up with the project’s demands.
See if their safety protocols are in place and if their work crew has any training to prioritize safety. Visit the lumberyard, and ask them about the contractor to see which pays their bills and knows the most about quality materials.
Furthermore, see if the general contractor is on time. Showing up late is a red flag. Being punctual and planning are two fundamental aspects of the contractor’s job. Even if they know that you’re vetting, the general contractor needs to be able to inspire confidence and impress you.
4. Vetting Their Staff Is Equally As Important
An ideal contractor must treat fellow workers with respect and work well with them. Inquire about how they handle problems, resolve issues, and their openness in communicating during the project. Be cautious with a contractor who cannot gain the respect of their peers and colleagues.
5. Check Overall Replies and Communication
It is also essential to pay attention to their communication and responses to you. If they are not easy to get a hold of on the phone and do not answer emails, they will give you a headache. Clients frequently complain about being left in limbo on their project statuses. A contractor who openly communicates will be most likely to respect your budget and work with you throughout the process.
6. Get Everything in Writing
This step will help protect your investment. Every deal you agree upon should be described in a contract that states your expectations for the work, payment arrangements, and schedule.
Essential terms to include in your agreement contract:
- Details on general contractor’s information, such as their name, place of business, phone, and license numbers.
- Your contract should state that the general contractor is responsible for acquiring permits and meeting local and state requirements. Contractors are generally required to meet insurance, licensing, and bonding demands.
- A complete and detailed description of the work to be done. Specific products and materials to be used must also be included.
- Schedule and timeline with a start date and projected completion date. After all the plans have been made with your general contractor, you should have a general idea of how long the project will take.
- Payment arrangements and schedule with the total amount to be paid and a breakdown of when partial payments are to be made.
- Check if cleanup has been added to the contract, so you’re not surprised with a cleaning fee at the end of your project.
After payment options, budget, cost estimate, timeline, etc., have been discussed with your contractor, every little detail has been listed, and your contract has been drawn up, then you may sign before any work is started.
7. Payment Process
Contracting professionals generally ask for 30% in advance to cover material costs. Down payments are typical. But, check your state for limits on the amount of money general contractors can request as a down payment.
With the expectation of down payments, do not pay in cash. Arrange to finance larger projects and use checks or credit cards for smaller ones. However, walk away if the GC pushes for you to sign immediately or insists on cash payments.
Let us get your vetting process started today! Contact Ziebart Construction to schedule your first contractor call and free consultation. We are a family-owned company that is committed to helping homeowners love their homes by delivering an enjoyable remodeling experience.
Click Here for a complete guide to a successful remodel in Portland.
