Once the decision to make changes to the house is made, a crucial choice must be made: that of the home contractor who will carry out the work. But finding someone you can really trust is not an easy task. To prevent your work from turning into a nightmare, here are our tips on how to choose a general contractor!
But before that, let’s discuss some of the factors you must consider when searching for a professional home contractor!
Factors to Consider in a Contractor
The quality of the workmanship (professionals who have their competency cards) and the materials offered, the after-sales service in the event of an adjustment to be made, the number of years in business, and the warranty provided are important factors to assess.
The 5, 10, or 20-year guarantees offered by the contractor are as good as the company’s life. If the latter closes its doors the next day, the contract will no longer be worth anything. The problem is that a high proportion of businesses in Florida open or close their doors every year. However, it is possible to prevent this eventuality by choosing a contractor who guarantees an insurance company or a renovation guarantee plan.
You can find different price variations for the same project from contractor to contractor. If this is the case, you must ask for more details to compare the inclusions. Tenders must be made on the basis of a single estimate to compare contractors’ offers more easily; that is, they must contain exactly the same elements.
If this is not done, you may risk ending up with significant differences in the nature of the work. Also, keep in mind that the lowest estimates may turn out to be unrealistic, which opens the door to extras along the way.
How to Choose a General Contractor?
Ask for Advice
Whether it’s colleagues, friends or relatives, it’s almost certain that someone you know has already had renovations done. Look for the right recommendations.
Several organizations offer registers of contractors that they have certified according to certain criteria, such as Palm Beach County’s Contractors Certification Division, which offers customers a “renovation guarantee” when carrying out work. You can request quotes online, which greatly simplifies your procedures.
Several private services also offer to help you find a good contractor. While all these tools are useful, they cannot replace the verifications that owners must do before signing a contract.
Do the Usual Checks
Contractors must hold a license for residential construction Palm Beach Gardens Contractor’s Certification. A contractor’s compliance and other information can be checked on their website.
Ask former Clients
Do not hesitate to ask for references from the contractor. Call other customers to find out how their experience was. Ask to visit the site or see photos of the work to make sure it lives up to your expectations.
Establish Your Budget
The first mistake people make is not establishing a budget for the work before meeting with a contractor. It is essential to establish your budget beforehand is necessary. Also, ask for at least three quotes in order to be able to compare the prices according to what is written in the said quotes.
Request Quotes
The plan of your renovations should be given to at least three contractors, who will make an estimate of the cost of the work and the materials. In addition to the description of the work to be done and its cost, the bid should include the start and end dates of the work, as well as the terms of payment.
Ask Questions
Do not hesitate to ask all the necessary questions to the contractor you are interested in. It’s about trying to find out as much as possible about their experience, specializations, thoroughness, deadlines, insurance, etc.
Asking about how long they have been in business and a list of references and whether they are licensed and registered or if they need a permit for your home project is very important.
Make a Written Contract
Paying cash for work can be tempting. In this case, it is often the handshake that becomes the contract. In the event of a dispute with the contractor, not having a contract becomes problematic. The contract must be written and detailed.
How much to Give in Advance?
The Consumer Protection Office recalls that the law does not specify how the work must be paid for. If possible, do not pay any deposit to the contractor or give them a small sum. It is recommended to make payments in installments according to the progress of the work.
Residential Construction Palm Beach Gardens
If you’re looking for custom home builders and contractors in Palm Beach Gardens, FL or the surrounding area, contact Chris Barbara Development. The expert team at Chris Barbara Development is highly experienced in all construction practices and utilizes state-of-the-art tools and procedures from planning to designing and building. Call (561) 312-2717 or visit their website for more information!