Questions for any one in construction?

Question

We need to find some one to remodel our kitchen and bath. what should we ask and how do we find out if they are reputable?

Answer 1

Ask for names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. I am always ready to present such information to my clients. Ask to see a photo album of previous work, if they're proud of the work they do then they'll want to show it off!

As far as the work goes, I have questions for you: have you hired an architect or will the contractor just be doing an R&R (remove and replace) job? How many square feet are the areas to be worked on and the most important: How much are you looking to spend?

You may e-mail me if you like.

Answer 2

Being licensed and insured and all that is nice and dandy, but I have always been able to do side jobs for people based on references alone. I work construction during the week and take on side jobs a few times a year. When we bid a job we are almost always at least 10-20 percent lower than about any contractor. The best place to look is your neighbors, friends and such. Everyone knows someone who does side work. Like a few others have said, ask for pictures and references. Show them exactly what you want, what materials you want (Tile, countertops, etc.). It will involve a little extra effort on your part, but when you are saving over $500 it is well worth it. You can also ask them how they price their work. If they are good they will be able to show you exactly what the charges are for each task.

**To expand on my answer for Chris C - Use common sense, if you are wanting someone to move walls and doors (changing the structure of your home) then it is advisable to hire a "professional". If you are wanting to change out doors, paint, replace vinyl flooring, tile, countertops - that kind of thing, then your everyday side job crew will do just great**

Answer 3

Make sure they are licensed. Get refrences, Find out if they use their own people, or sub contractors. If it's subs, all they are doing is calling in the tradesmen, marking up the price, and charging you. Get several estimates, and don't use the high one or the low one. Make sure they have insurance incase something goes wrong. NEVER PAY ANYTHING UP FRONT!!!!
You can sign a contract, but if they aren't established enough to get materials on their own you don't want them in your house.
Insurance IS that important. I also do "side" work, and my yearly insurance for $750.000.00 coverage is like $200.00 what's the bigdeal? Basically if the people you hire are not insured and accidentally remove a load bearing wall and your house sags, well, just think of the 10-20% you saved!

Answer 4

Get references,make sure they are licensed insured and bonded.Go and look at other jobs they have done and check them out with the better business bureau.Dont give them any money up front

Answer 5

Check your Contractors State License Board to make sure they are licensed. Also check your Better Business Bureau to make sure they haven't had any complaints. Check references.

Answer 6

be sure they have references and check them, that they have appropriate licensing if necessary...and you will probably have to pay some money up front, i never start anything without atleast a third of my money in advance only an idiot won't demand some sort of down payment this is why it is important to check references and previous customers. did i mention checking references?

Answer 7

You want to make sure they are licensed and you want to talk to several of their recent customers.