Hiring a contractor can be overwhelming. There are so many variables especially if you are living in the space during the construction or needing the work to occur within a specific timeframe. The last thing you want to do is hire someone that does not complete the job or doesn’t do quality work.
Before you hire a contractor, there are fifteen essential questions you should ask.
- What is your background and experience with this type of work? Have you ever done a job like this?
And your follow-up questions can lean into asking the contractor: how long have they been in business, what is the number of similar projects they have completed, and how many previous projects are like yours?
- Do you have insurance and a contractor’s license?
This is probably the most important question to ask because if they do not have either you will assume liability for everything. If this contractor’s quote is lower and they do not have insurance and a license, that is probably why—and the risk isn’t worth it. You don’t want to end up in a civil court dispute.
- Can you provide a list of previous client references?
You can also look at the company’s Google reviews and social media accounts for posted reviews.
- Has a BBB claim been submitted against your company?
Regardless of their response, you can verify the information by going to the Better Business Bureau’s website.
- Are you securing the permits?
While every job does not require a permit, obtaining a permit involves additional costs and time. Having a contractor that handles the permits will ensure timely inspections and a smooth process.
- What is the estimated timeline for completion?
The project may run longer but you will want an idea of the estimated completion. A follow up question is inquiring about their schedule. When will the workers arrive? Will the general contractor be there every day? If the workers are not working every day, what days will they be there? If there is a holiday during the estimated timeline, will those workers be working?
- Are subcontractors needed?
If the answer is yes, this might be an issue. Subcontractors on a job makes it challenging to know who is working and when—and this could change depending on the timeline of completion as each stage progresses.
- Is a background check completed for all workers?
- Who will be my main point of contact?
- What is the method of contract delivery?
For your knowledge, there are three options. Guaranteed Maximum Prices guarantees that a specific amount or maximum price will not be exceeded. The contractor would provide a cost breakdown. Lump-Sum Delivery is the most common and easiest. The contractor bids a fixed price and doesn’t provide a cost breakdown. Cost is the third option and includes the total cost of the project plus the contractor’s profit. You are also responsible for the cost of delays and other potential additional costs.
- What forms of payment are accepted and how will payments be paid?
- Will you clean up each day? And after the project is completed?
A follow up question is to learn if you are responsible for trashing/recycling the old materials and debris.
- Is there a warranty on the services and/or materials?
The follow up question will be whether or not there are additional costs or if that is included in the original estimate.
- How will the contracting team protect the surrounding area where they are working?
If the team is setting up outside, where will they park? Will they enter through a specific door? Will your grass and outdoor area be affected by their tools and vehicles? Will they notify your neighbors of upcoming work if they plan on loud noises or parking on the street?
- How will we resolve disagreements?
Established contractors will have a system in place to resolve disputes.
Not having experience in the construction field can make hiring a contractor feel intimidating but if you ask questions and lean into areas you do not understand, you will set yourself up for the best experience possible.