CHOOSING A RENOVATION CONTRACTOR
How do you choose the BEST Contractor for your upcoming renovation?
With so many options, review sites, and word of mouth suggestions it can be difficult to know which company to consider contacting. How do you narrow down the countless contracting companies into a manageable list?
With so many options, review sites, and word of mouth suggestions it can be difficult to know which company to consider contacting. How do you narrow down the countless contracting companies into a manageable list?
Read on to discover 5 ways to narrow your search for a contractor.
1. Engage with Reputable Contracting Companies
ALWAYS begin any construction project by visiting your Local Builders Association’s Website for a list of reputable builders in your area.
TIP: If you are between cities, try using both as a starting point.
2. Website Vetting
ONCE you’ve complied a list of reputable contractors, head to their websites.
Consider the contents more than the layout. Contractors are not web designers, but serious contractors will ensure the information they regard as important is included.
Do they have resources for potential clients to use?
Is there a description of their procedures or what to expect?
Consider the contents more than the layout. Contractors are not web designers, but serious contractors will ensure the information they regard as important is included.
Do they have resources for potential clients to use?
Is there a description of their procedures or what to expect?
Tip: Look for content that explains itself clearly & concisely, good communication is integral to a successful renovation.
3. Photographs of Completed Projects
CONSIDER the size and scope of your project, does it match with the builders showcased projects?
If you are looking for a whole home renovation, ensure the companies you are considering have the necessary experience. However, if you are just wanting to update your kitchen counters and resurface the cabinets, a smaller company may have the right industry connections and be better able to schedule in a smaller job.
If you are looking for a whole home renovation, ensure the companies you are considering have the necessary experience. However, if you are just wanting to update your kitchen counters and resurface the cabinets, a smaller company may have the right industry connections and be better able to schedule in a smaller job.
Tip: Before and after photos will better demonstrate experience and level of skill
4. Client Reviews
WHAT do you appreciate and consider compelling, do their reviews reflect what you are looking for in a contractor?
Look for statements that include good communication, overcoming challenges, and quality of onsite crew or subtrades. When faced with unexpected complications; how and when the contractor communicates, options given, and the ability of their crew to manage solutions are good indicators for how smoothly your remodelling project will go.
Look for statements that include good communication, overcoming challenges, and quality of onsite crew or subtrades. When faced with unexpected complications; how and when the contractor communicates, options given, and the ability of their crew to manage solutions are good indicators for how smoothly your remodelling project will go.
Tip: Explore several sources. Google, Houzz, and Facebook will give a broad overview. Reviews on Contractor websites can indicate what they strive to and take pride in.
5. Itemized Estimate, Transparent Billing, and Written Warranty
TRUSTED Contractors will provide an Itemized Estimate at the Contract Signing, this may not be the total cost as material prices fluctuate and renovations often have hidden challenges that are discovered during the project.
A Written Warranty gives peace of mind that your contractor stands behind their work, even better this indicates their intention for an ongoing relationship.
Transparent Billing is important whether you sign a Fixed Fee or Cost-Plus Contract. Check that the Contractors provide supporting documents with their Invoice such as Material & Labour Reports.
A Written Warranty gives peace of mind that your contractor stands behind their work, even better this indicates their intention for an ongoing relationship.
Transparent Billing is important whether you sign a Fixed Fee or Cost-Plus Contract. Check that the Contractors provide supporting documents with their Invoice such as Material & Labour Reports.
Tip: Membership in local associations and involvement in community projects indicate social responsibility and business integrity.