9 Essential Questions to Ask a Contractor Before a Project
By Pro.com
Home improvement projects can be intimidating, especially when they are large and complex enough to warrant a general contractor’s help. Once you have decided to move forward, you must make sure that the pro you hire is not only fit to do the project at hand but will do it right. You can get your job done smoothly and efficiently by asking these nine key questions upfront.
1. What Is Your Area of Expertise?
Your contractor will probably have extensive knowledge and experience in many areas, but what about this project? Before you tell prospects what kind of work you have in mind, ask them what they are specifically skilled at – this will help you know if they have the expertise to complete your job.
2. How Much Experience Do You Have With a Job Like This?
Be wary of contractors who say they can do everything. In other words, don’t allow generalities; you need to know that they can do the task required proficiently and that the end result will be what you desired.
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3. Do You Plan to Use Sub-Contractors?
Because a general contractor may not be skilled at niche trades like plumbing and electrical, many times they will sub-contract portions of a job out to others. This is perfectly normal but needs to be clear at the outset, as you will want to also meet and vet these sub-contractors.
4. How Long Will the Project Last?
Your contractor needs to be able to estimate the time it will take to complete your job. Many contractors underestimate how long it will take to complete the job, so make sure the time estimate is written into the contract. If the job goes over, you don’t want to be charged extra for its completion.
5. Will I Be Provided a Contract to Sign?
Contracts are made in an effort to ensure that obligations promised are met. If your contractor does not commonly work on a contractual basis, and you are not sure about the person's qualifications, don’t wing it! Find someone with extensive experience for the job you need done who will provide a thorough, articulate contract of work to be completed.
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6. Do You Have Liability Insurance?
Your professional contractor should be bonded and insured, thus making sure everything is covered from a financial perspective. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that they have enough insurance to rebuild your home if it should ever be needed.
7. What Are the Risks Involved With This Job?
Make sure your general contractor clarifies any dangers common to the tasks you need completed. If there are any (which in most cases, there should be), be sure to find out what your contractor's plan of action is in these cases so you are not surprised later.
[Ready to remodel your home? Click to find a home contractor now.]
8. Who Will Be on Site for the Job?
You want to know who will be working on your property at all times for a variety of reasons. Also be sure you know who is going to be in charge so you know whom to go to with any questions or unforeseen issues.
9. What Is Your Process for Additional Work Needed?
Make sure you clarify all details of your contractor’s change-order process and procedures. Make sure that you are able to set limits. If you and your general contractor establish beforehand an hourly rate and a cap for overages, you won’t be held up.
Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services -- especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.
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