Most Important Factors to Consider When Hiring a Residential General Contractor
Building your house is one of the most important decisions that you will make in your lifetime. It is important that the job is done right the first time. To make sure the job is done right, homebuilders should take the time to find the best general contractor to hire.
Here are some important factors to consider when hiring a general contractor for your home.
Hire only licensed contractors. Verify the license and ask the general contractor to hire only licensed subcontractors.
Check the references offered by the contractor. Ask to call other individuals that the contractor has worked for. Ask previous clients many questions including the quality of work, the cleanliness of the workers, the willingness to change a plan and if the project was completed on time.
Verify the contractor and subcontractor’s insurance policies. You do not want to be held responsible for accidents.
When considering several different bids from contractors, make sure you are comparing the same products and labor. One contractor may have a higher bid, but he/she may be offering more services. As the old saying goes, make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
You should have several different ways to contact your contractor. Ask for work numbers, cell phone numbers, pagers, email address, webpage, Facebook page, emergency contact number, fax number and even a home number, if possible.
Follow your instincts as you interview each contractor. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the person before signing a contract.
Always get a copy of the signed contract. Make sure you understand every part of the contract before you sign it.