How to Choose and Hire a General Contractor
A good contractor is hard to find— and when you do find one, their schedules may be booked for months out. As the popularity of home renovation projects skyrockets, vetting out the good ones is proving to be a particularly thorny challenge.
Selecting the right contractor can be the most important decision you make when renovating, and who better to hold those in the industry accountable for good work than John Young, Head of Contractor Network at Block Renovation, a streamlined platform where homeowners and contractors can get all of the tools and resources they need to plan and manage major renovation projects.
Finding the Right Local Contractor in 11 Steps
It may be tempting to select a potential contractor based on bid price alone, but there are several factors to keep in mind when comparing bids. "The right contractor with experience in your area can advise on local code/permit requirements and may even be able to help predict unforeseen conditions from larger projects or from working in similar homes or units to yours," reminds Young. "Licensed contractors that follow the highest quality standards and offer reliable workmanship warranties are more likely to execute a long-lasting renovation in your home, saving you money long term."
Research. Look for a list of contractors online and check their websites to get a better understanding of the kind of work they do. Platforms like Block Renovation and Google Reviews are good places to start.
Check their specialty. Different contractors might have different areas of expertise. Make sure the contractor you choose has a strong history with your type of project.
Verify licenses and certifications. Always check if your prospective contractor is licensed and certified. You can typically check this by visiting your state or local municipality licensing board's website or by contacting them directly. Unlicensed contractors may not be accountable to industry standards. You can go a step further by checking their permit history. If a contractor has a long record of successfully completing projects with building permits, chances are they are very reliable.
Ask for proof of insurance. Contractors should have both liability insurance and a workers' compensation insurance policy. Hiring an insured contractor with insurance certificates protects you in case of accidents or property damage during the course of the project. Avoid working with uninsured contractors.
Ask for a detailed list of references. A reputable home improvement contractor will have a list of previous clients who you can contact to get an understanding of their workmanship, punctuality, professionalism, and overall satisfaction with the project. When you speak with current references, be prepared with a list of questions so you can learn more about the overall experience, the project schedule, and make sure you're hiring a reputable professional. Ask if they had any difficult issues or concerns about cheap material quality. They may also be willing to share photos from their successful project.
Get multiple estimates. It's best to get bid estimates from at least three different contractors to compare prices. Keep in mind, however, that the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best. It's not always about trying to save thousands of dollars.
Interview contractors. This will not only give you an understanding of their approach to the work but will also help you gauge their communication skills, which are essential for the smooth progress of the project. Inquire about any business partners or subcontractors that will be involved with your project. Ask about requirements for the initial payment and their preferred payment schedule so that they know you're accountable, too.
Visit job sites. Teams that are willing to show you their completed or active home improvement projects are confident in their workmanship and willing to go the extra mile to win your business.
Look for established businesses. Professionals are likely to do high-quality work and are less likely to disappear midway through your project. They'll be more familiar with local building codes and proper permits so the job is done right. Look for companies that have been in business for many years, have a physical business address and a good track record.
Use a written contract. Reputable contractors will insist on a written contract that clearly defines the scope of the project, the timeline, the types of materials to be used, the project cost, and other important details. Avoid those who want to work without a contract.
Trust your instincts. Ultimately, trust your intuition when selecting a potential contractor. If something feels off or you have doubts about their professionalism or reliability, it may be best to explore other options.
Related: 10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Comparing Contractor Bids
Prioritize Communication; Build Trust
Having an open line of communication goes a long way. Find a trusted partner who will help you achieve your goals. Make sure that you find a communicative person who will proactively share any bumps in the road, and will work with you to solve any problems. The last thing you want is finding out about a potential delay too late.
1. Be Clear About Your Goals
"Clearly articulate your vision for the project, including your desired outcomes, functionality, and aesthetics," recommends Young. "Provide any sketches, images, or samples that can help convey your ideas."
2. Create a Project Brief
Outlining the scope of the project in a written form can help prevent details from falling through the cracks. He adds, "Prepare a written document that outlines the scope of work, specific requirements, and any preferences you have. Include details such as materials, colors, finishes, and any specific design elements you want to incorporate." If there's something you know you want, make a note of it. If there's an area where you're open to suggestions, make sure you note that as well.
Related: Houzz’s Kitchen Trends Study Notices Trend in Kitchen Island Size
3. Maintain Open and Honest Communication
Establish a transparent and open line of communication. "Regularly share your thoughts, concerns, and questions to ensure everyone is on the same page throughout the project," says Young.
4. Listen to Professional Advice
You're hiring the project out for good reason. "While it's important to communicate your vision, also be open to suggestions and recommendations," reminds Young. "They have expertise in the field and may offer valuable insights that enhance your original ideas."
