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 Finding a contractor you can trust can be a challenge. That's why
we've prepared this report, so you know the questions to ask and the
answers to look for in order to find a contractor that is worthy of
your business.
Finding the RIGHT contractor for your project entails more than just finding the contractor with the lowest price. Even though price is a major factor in choosing a contractor, your ability to communicate and feel comfortable working with your contractor will inevitably prove more important in determining your satisfaction with the job. This holds true particularly if it is a large project.
1. Make sure the contractor is properly licensed.
Ask the company to provide a copy of their license. It is important that you verify that the license is in good standing. A license is not an endorsement of the quality of the work. It provides some financial protection for you, the customer.
2. Make sure the contractor is properly insured.
Ask your contractor for proof of liability insurance and bonding, or the name and number of his/her insurance agent. Call to verify proof of coverage. Confirm that the contractor is carrying Workers Compensation and General Liability Insurance. Ask to have the insurance carrier send you a copy before work begins. NEVER accept copies handed over by the contractor himself.
3. Ask for and check references.
Past performance is the best way to learn about a contractor. Request references from previous jobs. Talk to homeowners who the contractor has worked for in the past. Were they satisfied with the work? Was the work finished? Did the contractor keep to the agreed-upon schedule? Did the contractor return phone calls? Would they recommend the contractor?
How long has the company been in business? Most contractors go out of business in the first two years; a strong foundation for a contractor is to have at least five years of experience.
4. Finalize the contract before starting on a project.
A good contract....
- Should be written on company letterhead.
- Should contain the company's name, address, phone numbers and license number.
- Should contain the customer's name, address (where work is to be performed) and phone numbers.
- Is dated when it is written.
- Includes a detailed description of the work to be performed.
- Includes an Installation time period
- Provides a payment schedule.
- Clearly states whether permit(s) will be filed and who will be responsible for filing them.
5. Don't automatically accept the lowest bid.
The old saying "you get what you pay for" applies here. A higher bid is usually worth the price in better materials, workmanship, and reliability. A large number of complaints filed against contractors are the result of homeowners taking the lowest bid and ultimately being unhappy with the quality of the work. Even when the contractor promises to do the same job, be cautious - often contractors will bid a job unrealistically just to get it. When the work takes longer than originally planned, the contractor can feel "squeezed" by the budget and try to cut comers.
6. Have the contractor fully explain his "change order" policy.
With respect to change orders, it is reasonable for you to pay more if you choose to change aspects of the project. The contractor has the right to charge you for the change, if there is a difference in cost. Discuss each change order as they occur. How will price and schedules be affected? Document all changes to the contract. Make sure all changes to the original contract, no matter how small, are documented and signed off by both parties.
7. Only pay the final payment once you are satisfied with the completed project.
Do not pay in full until the project is completely finished and you have completed your final inspection. For larger projects, do not make the final payment until you have passed the final building inspection. Also, avoid making any payments with cash. All checks should be payable to the company name.
8. Most importantly...
Do you trust this company to work on your home? When it comes down to it, the most important thing is your own gut feeling. How do you feel about this contractor working on what is probably your single largest investment - your home? Do you trust this company in your home? Around your children? Can you communicate well with this company? Are they "in-tune" with your needs?
I sincerely wish you the best of luck with your remodeling project – regardless of which company you choose to work with. Thank you for giving Atlantic Aluminum Products an opportunity to provide you with a FREE CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE. Remember, our designer will be there for one reason, to give you an education. This way, if and when you decide to add a sunroom, you will have all the information you need to make an educated decision.
Best Wishes,
Harold Sylvester
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