self-building need help?

Question

how do you know a reputable builder, what do you look put for when talking to him

Answer 1

You can go to a reputable lumber or material supply company and ask for a list of recommended contractors. These guys are in the business and they are going to put quality guys on the list because it is a reflection of them. Check with the Better Business Bureau. Also, interview the contractors from whom you get an estimate. How long have they been in business? Are they insured? Are they bonded? and like was mentioned earlier, word of mouth for sure. Find out some different projects they are currently doing and give them a surprise visit. An unannounced visit will catch them at their true work. How clean is the jobsite? What condition is their tools? if they will not take care of the very instruments that put bread on their table then they are likely not very detail oriented. Get everything in a written contract signed by both parties, no good ole boy verbal agreements. Make sure permits and inspections are obtained, if someone refuses a permit, forget them, that is a tell-tale sign right there you are going to get screwed. The best thing you can do is your homework and not come across as someone who knows nothing and totally at their mercy. Keep specific and detailed documentation. Write down what days they worked, what was done that day, how long they spent on the job each day, a complete record of phone calls, date and time along with a brief description of the conversation and what he said he would do and when. A digital camera with pictures of each stage of the process is invaluable. Walk through the project taking pictures right in front of them. They will know you are concerned and you are willing to put forth the effort to have documentation. That will help keep them on their toes. Some contractors are offended by that but so what, it is your money and your building. Documentation is invaluable if you ever have to go to court and in most every case, the person with the most complete and reliable documentation wins the case. Best of luck.

Answer 2

The best builders are always recommended by word of mouth, if you know anyone who has had work done ask them. Or if you see any builders advertisment boards on peoples houses just knock and ask if they would reccomend

Also make sure you get a few quotes from different builders so you can compare prices, remember the cheapest isn't always the best :)

Answer 3

First, contact your local homebuilders association, if you don't have one start the the national or state homebuilders association, get a list of members and then go with word of mouth. Drive around neighborhoods being developed, walk around some of the houses in different stages of being built (start with slab, check the slab then go to framing, then electrical, etc.). Just talking to a builder isn't good enough because anyone can "sell" something but you need someone who also practices what they say.

Answer 4

contact the federation of master builders and they will put u in touch with a reputable builder

Answer 5

if you ring your local building control office ..tell them you dont want a cowboy ..and im sure they will point you in right direction

Answer 6

I don't think you can add anything better to the answer from Walt.