One crucial element of every new construction or remodeling project is hiring a contractor who is right for the job. New construction or remodeling projects are huge investments. They can quickly turn sour with faulty or improper workmanship from a builder who is not a licensed general contractor, or who might be unqualified or inexperienced. That is why it is important to follow specific guidelines on how to hire a contractor.
Project owners should follow these steps for locating and hiring a contractor. Paying careful attention to the screening process, as well as specific detailed information spelled out in the actual general contractor contract. By doing so, one can insure the success and quality of any construction or remodeling project.
Build a list of Possible Candidates
Once you have a detailed plan that includes specific aspects of your remodeling, new construction, or renovation project, your next step is to build a list of residential general contractor or general building contractor candidates.
Good candidates should be located close to the project and possess up-to-date contractor general liability insurance, or general contractor insurance. They should have a general contractor license or the specific required licensing, endorsements, or certifications for the type work they will be doing.
A good candidate should also have experience with the type project you are planning. One good resource is by word of mouth from relatives or close friends. When considering a referral, find out what type of work was done; whether or not there were any problems, if the completed project was satisfactory, and if they would acquire the services of the same contractor again.
Another increasingly popular way to find a reliable general contractor is to locate one online via the Internet. When doing so, it is important to follow up with a thorough check of references and credentials for each candidate. Your list should consist of at least 3 candidates, preferably more.
Thoroughly Screen Each Candidate
Once you have compiled a list of possible candidates, screen each. Your initial contact can be made by telephone or e-mail if you are using the services of an online contractor/homeowner matchmaking service. Contact candidates you are seriously considering by telephone to discuss details of the project.
When you have narrowed the list down to 2 or 3, provide each candidate with an identical set of project plans. You may want to arrange a home interview to discuss the project in person. Gather detailed information such as estimates or quotes, contractor license numbers, insurance information, references, and material suppliers.
Check with local building authorities for information regarding complaints or violations on a particular contractor. A reputable contractor should have few or no negative incidents on record.
Ask Questions
Ask who will be responsible for obtaining necessary permits, when the job can begin, and how many crewmembers will be working on site. If the candidate will not personally be working at your site full-time, ask how much time each day they will spend supervising? Also ask about any sub-contractors, and how available for work they will be.
Be sure to detail any aspects of the project you will be completing yourself, and ask what projects they currently have in progress. Ask if they plan to work on other projects simultaneously with your own.
Before making a final selection, thoroughly check all references; including any projects in progress. Assess the candidate's demeanor and personality. You might want visit one of his current jobsites to see how he works with employees or other contractors to resolve problem issues.
Developing the Contract
When you have made your final selection, you will need to make a contract agreement. A general contractor contract protects both the contractor and the project owner. It details all the specific information and requirements of the project, as well as guidelines and schedules for payments. A good contract should accurately detail the following:
- The address of the project
- Names and addresses of both parties
- Detailed description of the work to be completed, including any work to be completed by the project owner
- Detailed information about materials, fixtures, and hardware, including what are acceptable/unacceptable substitutions
- Any warrantees on work and materials
- A list of all permits needed and who will be responsible for acquiring them
Project start and completion dates including any acceptable reasons for delay (weather, backordered materials, etc.)
- Detailed payment information including amounts and dates of each payment (usually â…“ to ½ in advance, another payment midway, and the final payment, usually about 15%, after completion and final approval)
- A change-order clause, which specifies any provisions and charges for changes made after the start of the project ( a 10% - 15% markup is common)
- Final site cleanup after project completion, detailing who is responsible for cleaning up and trash removal
Note: if the contractor is not personally going to be responsible for removing debris at the end of the project, he or she will have to sub-contract with someone for that detail, or you will have to hire a construction clean up contractor.
By following these steps and guidelines, the undertaking of hiring a contractor for a successful project doesn't need to be a stressful and uncertain experience.
A good resource for finding reliable, qualified, local contractors in your area is at TrustedPros.com. Project owners can post their project for free, without obligation. Contractors in your area are ready to bid on your project today!
Posted by: TrustedProsSuggested Reading For You
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