Finding a reliable home remodeler is key to ensuring a successful project. When it comes to your home renovation, you need a team you can count on to deliver beautiful designs, cost-effective solutions, and long-lasting durability. While many contractors may seem great on the surface level, it’s important that as the homeowner you conduct your research, follow up with questions, and discuss your expectations before hiring them.
No matter how small or large your project may seem, you deserve to work with a team that’s willing to go the extra mile to guarantee customer satisfaction. Let’s review some advice professionals in the field have for choosing the right contractor for your home renovation.
Set Expectations
Before spending valuable time researching “home contractors near me”, setting your expectations for the project is always a good idea. Do you expect your contractor to make design decisions, source products, and budget costs?
These are all things that you should know before approaching a home remodeler. If you need a contractor who can do all this and more, looking for a business that provides additional interior design services may be best.
Do Your Research
Start looking for qualified home remodelers by searching for local businesses that serve your community. Once you’ve compiled a list of contractors, start going through their awards, certifications, and completed projects to find the most experienced team.
For example, If you’re interested in a bathroom remodel, make sure you choose a team that’s willing to provide before and after photos of their bathroom remodeling experience. This process will help you narrow down the choices to decide which is the right fit for the job.
Request Estimates
Another strategy for narrowing down the selection of contractors is to request estimates from each business. An estimate can provide you with valuable insight into the quality of work they offer and the scope of services. Make sure to compare at least three estimates, request a full scope of work, and permit costs.
Reviewing Estimates
When reviewing each estimate, be wary of unusually high or low bids. The estimate should contain pricing for labor, materials, permits, and any additional costs they anticipate. With at least three estimates to compare, you’ll get a good sense of the anticipated cost of your home remodel.
Scope of Work
The scope of work should be clearly outlined in the estimate so both parties are aware of the project requirements. This should include a clear outline of services expected for design, demolition, and installation as well as a timeline for completing services.
Permit Costs
Any experienced home contractor should be able to provide a general outline of costs for permits. Local experts will know what permits to apply for and how to schedule inspections as needed. If a home contractor does not request permits, they may not be qualified for the job.
Compare Schedules for Availability
As the choices for a home contractor narrow, you may want to inquire about project availability. Depending on the time of year, home remodelers may be fully booked or widely available. For example, in the middle of summer, it may be difficult to schedule a roof replacement. Make sure the home remodeler you’re interested in hiring can complete your renovation on time or you may have to move on to another option.
Inquire About Financing
If you’re stuck on two or more contractors for your interior or exterior remodel, consider a company that offers financing options. Financing is a great way to achieve your dream home remodel without having to pay for the full amount all at once. For larger projects, ask your contractor what financing options they provide homeowners in your situation.
Review Certifications
At a minimum, it’s good to find a contractor who’s fully licensed and insured in your geographical area to ensure professional results. However, contractors who possess manufacturer certifications may be even more qualified for the job. Here are some major industry certifications to look for:
- National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Certifications
- National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Certifications
- Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
- Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Certifications
- Lead-Safe Certification (EPA)
- HomeAdvisor Screened & Approved
- The Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certifications
Project Management
If you have a large home renovation planned, you should expect to be in communication with a project manager or team leader throughout the remodel. This is one benefit you can enjoy when hiring a professional home remodeling company for something significant like a new roof or complete home remodel.
A project coordinator will stick to the timeline, update you with progress, and deal with problems as they arise. This person will be great with homeowners and should be able to accommodate your requests along the way. It’s much easier to communicate effectively when there’s a single point of contact for the project.
Ask About Subcontractors
Do you have a preference for in-house employees over subcontractors? If this matters to you, ask your home remodeling contractor if they outsource labor to subcontractors for specific tasks such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and concrete pouring. These details should also be outlined in your estimate and the final contract.
While subcontractors may be equally or more qualified to complete the work, in-house employees typically undergo training to ensure consistent quality across all projects. In-house employees may also keep the cost of labor minimal as opposed to outsourcing services. Either way, you should know if you can expect uniformed, screened, and licensed professionals to show up at your home.
Assess Customer Service
Aside from the facts and logistics, it’s important that you feel comfortable hiring a contractor to work on your home. Ask yourself throughout the process if you’ve enjoyed the quality of customer service the home remodeler has provided. This can give you an idea of how well the team will keep you updated about progress, any potential delays, or changes to the plan.
Have they communicated clearly or are you having trouble reaching them for answers to your questions? After all, this is a person who will be entering your home and taking thousands of dollars to complete your important home remodel. You should feel confident in hiring them as your contractor.
Sign a Contract Before Work Begins
When deciding on your contractor, make sure to sign a legally binding contract before work begins. This paperwork gives you protection and peace of mind that the work will be completed within your discussed timeframe and budget. A contract provides clear expectations, legal protection, and guarantees.
Beware of Red Flags
Whether this is your first home remodel or you’re a seasoned pro, it’s easy to miss red flags when vetting a home remodeler. As the saying goes, if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Any contractor offering pricing, services, or turnaround times that seem unbelievably convenient may be trying to scam you.
Keep a good head on your shoulders while searching for and communicating with contractors as some businesses may not be as transparent as they should be. Be wary of costs associated with requesting an estimate, reluctance to provide their contractor license, and poor communication throughout the process.
Find Your Perfect Home Contractor Today
There are a million ways to mess up hiring a contractor, but there is only one sure way to get it right. Our comprehensive network of top-rated professionals puts you face-to-face with the most skilled experts in your area. Browse a list of talented contractors who consistently deliver outstanding results.
Whether you’re remodeling your bathroom, kitchen, roofing, siding, or more, we have a home contractor standing by to get started on your project right away. We connect homeowners to the best contractors in the industry to make the process of finding a contractor as easy as possible. Get started now and find the perfect fit for your renovation!
