How to Hire a (Good) Contractor

 

Even the most experienced DIYer needs to bring in the pros every so often and this means hiring a contractor. But how do you find a good contractor – one that will get the job done quickly, affordably, and accurately? Here are some hints.

 

Ask around

 

It’s a good idea to hire a contractor that has experience doing the job you want done. That expert kitchen remodeler may not be your best bet to install your backyard desk. Start by asking around. There’s almost nothing better than a referral from a friend, co-worker, or neighbour who has had a great experience with a contractor.

 

If that doesn’t generate any leads, try local businesses like building supply stores to see if they can recommend any one. If all else fails, there’s always google but, if you go this route, you have to be sure to do diligent background checks.

 

Even if the contractor comes with a glowing recommendation, check up on him. Find out if the he has any complaints filed against him with the Better Business Bureau. This will tell you up front who you should avoid.

 

Ask a lot of questions

 

Your next step should be to contact the contractor. You’ll want to gather as much information as possible, so don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. You should ask:

 

How long have you been in business?
Have you done work like this before?
Are you licensed?*
Do you have insurance?
How many employees do you have? Are they licensed and insured?
Who will be doing the work (i.e. the contractor and crew or subcontractors)?
What is your clean-up schedule (i.e. every night or at the end of the job)?
What is your work schedule (including start and end dates)?
Will you provide a written contract?

*Ask to see the license. Licenses are issued by the government and expire yearly, so make sure your contractor has one that is valid.

 

Above all, you want to feel comfortable with the contractor. Once the work begins, they will be spending a lot of time in your space so you want to be sure it’s some one you trust, can get a long with, and communicate effectively with.

 

Set up a meeting

 

Have a few contractors come into your home and explain to them, in detail, what exactly you want done. It’s important to be as detailed and precise as possible to avoid any miscommunication. This will also give you a better idea of the contractor’s professionalism and ability to communicate.

 

Ask for references (and follow up)

 

A reference is useless if you don’t actually call the person. Get at least three references from the prospective contractors and follow up with all of them.

 

Ask them key questions:

Are you happy with the job?
Was it started/completed on time?
Did the contractor communicate any issues?
Were there any problems that were not fixed?
Were there any surprise costs or changes to the project?
Would you use the contractor again?

 

Ask for pictures of the work, and, if possible, go take a look. A successful contractor should be happy to show off a job well done.

 

Get estimates

 

In general, you’ll want to get at least three written quotes and proposals from different contractors. Make sure they’re as detailed as possible and include everything you want done. If it’s not in the estimate, you should assume it’s not included in the price.

 

Compare the estimates carefully. Maybe it’s our organizational nature, but we find a spreadsheet really helpful in comparing the quotes. Create a simple spreadsheet to easily judge the estimates based on time, cost of materials, and labour. This way, you can compare specific parts of the cost, like seeing if one contractor is charging you double what another is for material.

 

Get it in writing

 

Once you’ve decided on a contractor, draw up a contract that outlines every aspect of the job.

 

Taking the time to find the right contractor for the job will save you hassle and headache down the renovation line. Always do you research, ask lots of (the right) questions, and don’t accept verbal agreements.