While looking for someone who is going to build your dream home, you have to consider many factors other than money. A home is a place where we spend most of our time, and NO one wants poor quality construction details staring them in the face every day. Sometimes you have to hire a pro rather than take on a job yourself. And if you choose the wrong contractor, it can lead to delays, poor work, and even legal problems. So before choosing anyone to lay down the foundation of your dream home, keep following points in mind.
Go With Your Gut
A contractor has to stay in your home and around your family for days, weeks, or even months if he is going to be changing the way your house looks. If your gut feeling is reluctant to accept their presence around you and your family, do not hire them.
Is Contractor Licensed to Work in Your Area, Bonded, and Insured
A license reduces the risk to homeowners of getting ripped off. Make sure to get the contractor’s license number before hiring him. You can be responsible if the contractor does not have insurance and any worker gets injured while working on your project. Get proof of insurance.
Choose a Contractor Who Is An Expert in Your Project Type
It is very important to look for a contractor who has experience particularly in your type of project. Many contractors often take classes and research about the kinds of projects they undertake. This enables them to face potential problems and perform the work efficiently.
Look at Work Samples
This will help you see a contractor’s handiwork. And it can spark ideas for your project. Samples are more important than references. They help you to see the quality of the contractor’s work. You can see the designs and the variety of work the company has performed such as contemporary, craftsman, or historic designs.
Ask About a Mechanic’s Lien
According to mechanic’s lien laws in some states, anyone who worked on or supplied raw materials for your project and is not paid can place a lien on your home. Even if you pay your contractor, but he doesn’t pay the lumberyard for your materials, you would be responsible for that bill. Homeowners have to understand the lien laws in their state because they differ from state to state
Also, check the contractor’s legal status before you hire. It would create a potentially messy situation if a contractor you hire has a lien against him.
Ask About Timelines
Always ask the contractor how long it will take to complete your job. You may have to add an extra eight weeks to help manage your expectations. Many unexpected incidents can happen on a construction site that cause your project to take much longer than expected.
Give Guidelines for Working In or Around Your Possession
You must be sure that workers do not show up before a certain time, stay past a certain hour, or use your bathroom. If you need to have the project finished by a certain date, tell the contractor before you hire him. It is possible that the contractor would not accept the job parameters you want to place.
