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    Choosing a General Contractor

    Choosing a General Contractor

    So you’re ready to take the plunge on a major renovation in your home. Whether that be replacing the bathtub or getting some new tile for your kitchen, you might want to hire a contractor if you don’t want to do the work yourself or are not completely confident in your DIY skills. But picking the perfect home improvement contractor can be difficult. How will you be able to tell if someone will do a good job if you don’t know how to do it either?

    When you are looking for a contractor to hire, you are essentially hiring a new employee for a job. You wouldn't just hire the first applicant that walked through your door without seeing what else was out there. So don’t hire your contractor until you are sure they are the best candidate for the job. Here are some things you should do to make sure you are making the right decision:

    One of the first steps to finding the right home improvement contractor is by getting recommendations from your friends and family, and making a list of 10 to 15. Then, you can gradually narrow that list down to the top choices, then eventually use your list to pick the one you will hire. There are many ways you can make your list, including:

    1. Asking friends and family
    2. Searching online for the type of service you are looking for
    3. Checking out the online reviews and forums
    4. Using social media to ask for local recommendations

    Any reputable contractor will have a portfolio that you can look through that showcases their work. Be sure to look for a contractor who specializes in the type of renovation you need. Any good portfolio can be online or physical but it should contain at least ten projects. It should also include pictures of the space before the work began, during the remodel and after the project is complete.

    Another way you can narrow down your list is by asking for each contractors’ licensing and certifications. These licenses will depend on the type of project and they also vary by location. In addition to ensuring your potential contractors have the right licenses and certifications to do the job safely and legally, be sure that they also have liability insurance just in case they cause damage to your home. The contractor and other workers should ideally be covered with worker’s compensation as well. Get a copy of their insurance policies and make sure they’re up to date.

    Once you’ve done these basic things, you can finally hire your perfect contractor. Ultimately, it’s up to you to do your research and find a skilled and professional contractor to get your home renovation done right. Research every contractor as thoroughly as possible and take your time since it is for the best of your home. Once you have reviewed and signed the contract, then you will need to write a deposit check. Now, you are one step closer to having your own dream home.