As you prepare for a home remodeling project, you should understand what to expect from your contractor. Your relationship with your contractor must be based on mutual respect. To see if they are honest and fair enough to live up to your expectations, here are essential questions to ask your remodeling contractor.
Would You Please Itemize the Bid?
Many contractors would like to give you just a bottom-line price for the project. While it is tempting to accept a simplistic approach when dealing with such a massive undertaking, these methods lack transparency and can lead to problems down the line.
You have every right to ask your remodeling contractor for an itemized bid of their work. You should know the costs for:
- Demolition
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- Lighting fixtures
Armed with that kind of information, you can decide which components of the project are crucial and which you can live without.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Compared to the other essential questions to ask your remodeling contractor, this one may appear somewhat inconspicuous. But, in truth, this question could reveal a wealth of information. You want contractors who have had a long history of successful work, particularly in your region.
When you open this conversation, you can eventually ask for people who can vouch for the contractor’s work. Ask if your potential contractor can offer any referrals from past clients or suppliers.
Are You Bonded, Licensed, and Insured?
Every contractor you let work in your home should be licensed, bonded, and insured in accordance with the state and local standards. If they are insured, your home will have better protection. If they are a bonded contractor, you are in a better legal position if they fail to finish their work or treat their employees unfairly.
How Many Projects Do You Run Simultaneously?
Your contractor likely has more responsibilities than just your project. But if they have so many other distractions that they miss deadlines or seem overwhelmed, then there might be a problem. Get ahead of the confusion and unfair pressure by asking your contractor how many projects they are running. Based on their availability, you can decide if they are the right person for the job.
With so much to think about when it comes to home remodeling, it’s a good thing you can rely on C & K Custom Remodeling to lend a hand. Come take a look at our home remodeling work in Portland, OR.