If you’ve ever been burned by a contractor before (no-shows, high prices for low-quality work, etc.) then you know the importance of properly vetting a remodeling contractor before hiring them. Most contractors are reputable and will do all they can to make sure you’re happy, but not all of them will.
This is why it’s critical to do your research on any remodeling company you choose. Here are some tips.
- Can You Provide References?
If a contractor refuses to give you references, take this as a red flag. Maybe they don’t have the experience, or maybe they have a lot of bad reviews. Whatever the case may be, failure to provide references should make you turn and run the other way. Most Boston remodeling contractors are proud of their work and will be glad to share their happy customers with you.
Now that you have the references to call, now you have to actually call them. This is the part where you find out what they have to say about the contractor, how they rated their experience, what they liked and disliked about the contractors, and whether they would hire them again or not.
Ask what they observed about the relationship between the contractors and his or her employees. How they treat their workers will say a lot about how they will treat you as a client.
2. What is Required Upfront For a Deposit?
Most contractors will ask for a deposit before beginning work. This is money they need to buy the materials and supplies for your project. This is a reasonable request, and 10 percent is fairly standard in this industry. If you are asked to provide a larger deposit than that, or if cash is demanded, this may signal financial instability or a scam.
3. What’s the Scope of Work?
It’s important to have clear specifications about the project laid out beforehand. Ask for a scope of work beforehand, which usually doubles as an estimate. It will outline every part of the project you have requested and are paying for. Some even include timelines in these scopes of work. To be fair, though, just keep in mind that timelines can vary a bit with weather and material delays, so leave a little wiggle room.
4. What Goes Into the Quoted Price?
If you are given a very low price, this should give you pause. You also don’t want it to be exceptionally high either. If your contractor is charging you many thousands below or over what others are, there is often a catch. Are you expected to purchase and provide all fixtures and materials? Is the contractor paying his or her employees fair wages with benefits? Are they licensed and insured?
5. Do You Have Insurance?
You need to know your contractor carries liability insurance in the event something were to go wrong during the project or someone were to get hurt. If your contractor doesn’t have insurance, you as the homeowner will be responsible to pay up. Look for at least $1 million in general liability. More is better.
In the end, it’s critical to do your research, ask the right questions, verify experience and insurance, and read the entire contract before signing.
Contact AD Construction
AD Construction has more than 40 years of experience handling remodels in the Back Bay, South End, Cambridge, Brookline, Milton, Newton, and the Boston Metro area since 1980. To book a consultation with our Boston Metro remodeling contractors, contact us at 877-345-BUILD.
