You’ve finally decided to move ahead on that home addition or kitchen remodel you’ve been dreaming about. While you’re excited, you’re understandably nervous.
With your dreams and hard-earned money on the line, what should you consider when hiring a general contractor? Here are six questions you should find the answers to before signing that contract:
1. Is this contractor licensed and insured?
Make sure your contractor is currently licensed and bonded. Additionally, make sure they have adequate insurance coverage. You can do this by contacting the Labor & Industries Department and the Better Business Bureau. Failure to have these pieces in place leaves you vulnerable and also suggests the contractor could have financial troubles.
2. Is this business financially stable?
Look for a general contractor that has been in business for a minimum of 5 years, ideally 10 or more. Longevity is important! Much of a general contractor’s work comes through referrals. Therefore, the longer the contractor has been in business, the better the chances they’ve created a history of positive clients and built a financially stable business.
3. Can this contractor handle my project?
Make sure to clearly communicate your needs with your prospective contractor. Be sure to ask if they can show you past work that demonstrates their proficiency to handle your project. Don’t hesitate to ask for a half dozen references, and then call them! Ask them if the job was done timely, well, and according to budget.
4. How does this contractor hire out subcontractors?
The subcontractors are responsible to execute the many steps to complete an overall project. Therefore it’s critical that your general contractor is a reliable project manager. At Fat Boy Construction, we have a team of dependable, talented subcontractors we work with regularly. Having established relationships means we can more readily meet your needs and ensure a quality project.
5. Does the contractor’s bid seem reasonable?
Of course you want a price you feel is fair and within your budget. However, beware if a quote seems too low. You may end up with cheap materials or unskilled (or unfairly paid) laborers. Sometimes inexperienced general contractors may not fully account for the time and products needed to do the job right. You do not want to find out halfway into your project that the general contractor severely underestimated costs. Make sure the bid has properly accounted for the materials you want included into your project and that enough time has been allotted to ensure completion.
6. Will this contractor care about me through the process?
Often price and the ability to get the job done are the major considerations when choosing a general contractor. But remember, this is your home, your dream, your money. It is essential you feel you can connect with your general contractor. At Fat Boy Construction, we understand how important this process is to you. We’ve even added a client login to our webpage so you can get a calendar update of your project at any time you wish. Our goal is to be accessible to you, from start to finish.
We believe you should feel good about the general contractor you’ve selected! To learn more about choosing Fat Boy Construction for your project, please call us at (253) 576-8333.