Contractor Selection

Selecting a contractor is crucial for the successful completion of your project. Here are some things you should ask before making a decision:

Is the Contractor licensed by the city?

Ask to see the contractor's license.

Does the Contractor have Workman's Compensation, General Liability, and Builder's Risk insurance?

Ask to see a certificate to verify coverage, preventing the possibility of being liable for injuries or damages to anyone or anything on your job site.

How long has the contractor been in business?

Contractors with experience and expertise are usually better equipped to handle your project than those with no experience.

Does the contractor have reliable references to support their work?

If references are not given voluntarily there may be a problem. Ask the contractor for references. When selecting a contractor a higher reputation may be better than a lower cost.

Is the business full or part-time?

A part-time business sometimes means part-time quality, materials, and warranties.

How long did it take to have a call returned?

Prompt responses, even if it is just a phone call, can be a reflection of how important the project is to a contractor. If you make multiple calls to a contractor and no one ever returns your call, you may want to reconsider.

Do they have a company vehicle with their information visible, or do they work from their trunk?

Established, competent contractors usually want to advertise their business. Someone who advertises their business is proud of their product.

Does the contractor maintain permanent contact information such as a mailing address and phone number?

Professional contractors should provide you with information on how to contact them in person or by phone during construction and after the project is complete.

Does the contractor seem organized?

The organization of the contractor reflects how organized the completion process will be. It's that long space between the signing of the contract and the completion of the project that you are really buying.

Will the contractor or their subcontractors inspect the existing mechanical systems of the structure?

Sometimes projects require the mechanical systems to be upgraded to service the new or remodeled areas and the amenities that you have chosen. A knowledgeable contractor should check the existing mechanical systems: electric, heating and air, plumbing, etc. before pricing your project.

Will the contractor provide written, detailed specifications and plans with a contract?

Anytime you are receiving a bid from a contractor be sure that you are receiving the information in writing and thoroughly "read between the lines" so you know exactly what you are getting for the price. Vague specifications can result in disappoints and disagreements.

Does the contractor offer in-house design services and professional interior design assistance?

By using us, you will be allowed to make and view preliminary design changes on the spot. Preliminary project design is included in the cost of the project so there are not outside expenses for this service. Additionally, we provide interior design services on a fee basis. We also welcome the opportunity to work in conjunction with architects and other design professionals.

How much time did it take to receive a completed proposal?

You may want to avoid contractors that give you an "on the spot" price. If a contractor takes time to give you a written proposal and price, thought has been put into the project and contingencies have been addressed.

Who applies for the applicable permits pertaining to your project?

The contractor should obtain the permits. If they ask you to acquire a permit, you may have no recourse against them if problems arise. DO NOT allow a contractor to have you apply for the permit. If you are asked to do this, this type of contractor should be avoided.

What is the deposit to begin the project and when is the outstanding balance due?

We provide a payment schedule with all of our contracts outlining the payments.

Can you provide financing for the project?

We have established relationships with several lenders who can provide a competitive financing package for your project.

Does the contractor offer a warranty?

We offer a 1- year written warranty. Professional companies should provide a warranty, which lets you know they are confident in their work.