Ready to Remodel? Four Questions to Ask Your Contractor

You’ve been thinking about it long enough. Now it’s time to move forward with that kitchen and bathroom remodeling project. But before you take the plunge, be sure to put together a list of questions to ask a prospective contractor so you are assured of hiring the best team for the job. Below is a list of essential questions you need to ask any potential hire before any expensive mistakes are made.

Whether it’s a minor renovation, extension, or something more, one thing you can’t afford to get wrong is the contractor.

1) Is your bid an estimate or a fixed price?

Even if some contractors treat their bids as estimates, this means the cost could end up being higher in the end. Many contractors will say they can’t offer a fixed price because there may be too many unknowns with the job. While it’s true you cannot figure out the full scope of the project before you open the walls, the right contractor can help you accommodate your budget for unforeseen costs along the way, should the need arise. Keep in mind that a good and experienced contractor will know exactly what the job will cost. At the Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Company, we always provide an exact quote and review with you before the project begins so you have the opportunity to ask questions and gain peace of mind.

2) How long have you been in business?

Finding a contractor who’s been in business in the area for 10 or more years makes them a safer bet than someone who’s either new to the area or new to the industry. As they say, experience is the best teacher, and someone who has been a part of the industry for longer has a better understanding of the supply chain and industry. While those contractors who are starting out may advertise an initially lower price, their overall cost may be more if they lack the necessary experience to provide accurate estimates for the services they offer.

3) Who are your leading suppliers?

Contractors are always networked with their suppliers. You can tap into information on your contractor’s dependability and level of quality by talking to owners of:

• ·         Tile shops

• ·         Kitchen and bath showrooms

• ·         Lumberyards

• ·         The contractors’ desk at your favorite home improvement center

Consider this checking references. Your remodeling contractor should have no reservations about telling you where he gets his materials if he’s an upstanding customer.

4) Can I see a project you’re currently running or have completed?

Many contractors don’t swing hammers. They spend their days bidding on new work and managing their various jobs and workers. That makes the foreman — the one who’s working on your project every day — the most essential member of your team. Make sure you meet the lead member of the work team; these guys will be the ones doing the actual finished work.

It’s a good and smart idea to have a working list of questions. Remember, you need to live with the outcome of any work done to your home, so you want to be sure the right team is behind you. If you have questions about your project, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.