Hiring a Contractor

TIPS & QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN HIRING A CONTRACTOR

Hiring a contractor can be scary.  Doing your due diligence before hiring your contractor can make the experience much easier.  Before hiring, interview your contractor and pick someone you trust and can communicate with. 

Ask your contractor: 

1. Are they insured and bonded?
2. Is the contractor licensed with the City?
3. Have they passed the contractor test for which they are doing work?
4. Ask how unexpected issues or differences might be handled (this can include change orders).
5. Remember you might decide to add some extras (e.g. bathroom accessories) that your contractor has not priced; so ask your contractor how they will deal with those.
6. Talk to your contractor about timelines and remember your project might take longer if you add things or if unforeseen incidents happen.

Make sure you have the following: 

1. Be sure you have a contract that states, at a minimum, what they are doing and for how much.
2. Be sure a permit has been obtained for the work (if required).
3. Get lien releases from the contractors or suppliers when you pay for services and materials.

Remember that price shouldn’t always be your guide.  Technical competence and your comfort with your contractor should play an equal or greater role in your decision.