Contractors
The following questions and items will help you find a good general contractor to ensure that you have a satisfactory experience on your project.
Ask, Are you licensed, insured, and bonded? ( If they do not hold an adequate bond, you may not be protected if the project is not finished with the expected or needed project date or within budget)
Ask the contractor to explain what the job will entail so that you know they understand the job, communicate well, and are patient, so you know what to expect from them.
Ask for recommendations/references.
Ask, How long will the project take?
Ask, Who will be managing the project directly?
Ask, What guarantees and warranties are given on their work?
Get everything in writing.
Ask, What different styles and options are available which you might not have considered.
Compare prices.
Verify the their licensee and insurance.
Choose the right contractor and understand that one contractor might be a good fit for one project but not the next.
Get at least three bids.
Budget for unexpected costs.
Get lien releases and receipts.
Make sure all necessary permits are acquired.
Expect to pay a deposit.
Verify the contractor's business location and telephone number.
Verify the contractor's workers' compensation and commercial general liability insurance coverage.
Ask about their subcontractors and verify the licenses and referrals of subs to ensure the contractor uses a stable group of subcontractors
