Some home renovation projects can be done DIY style. On the other hand, a general contractor will be needed for other projects that require more work and expertise. This includes finishing a basement, remodeling a bathroom, or adding a new room.
When you hire a contractor, you are trusting them with your property, your investment, and the future of your home. This is why finding the right contractor for your unique project is crucial.
Here are 4 steps you need to take in order to hire the right contractor.
- Consider The Scope of Your Project
As we’ve alluded to before, not all home renovation projects are created equal.
Consider what is the ultimate goal of your project and what expertise will be needed. For example, if your home is very old, you might want a contractor that specializes in historical renovation. If you have an emergency, like a clogged toilet, you might need a contractor with emergency 24-hour services.
Do you need a team of painters? A plumber? A roofer? An electrician? A whole team of builders? Depending on your goals, you might need a team that can handle the whole thing, top to bottom.
Or, it might be better to hire a few different specialized contractors to complete small parts of the project. For example, hire one contractor to paint the walls, and another to install the carpet.
- Shop Local & Ask Around
Locally owned and operated companies are always the best choice. This is due to a couple of reasons. First, smaller businesses have fewer clients compared to nationwide corporations, allowing more individualized attention to you. Secondly, their local reputation is very important to their success, which means they will hold themselves to higher standards.
Finally, they tend to be easier to contact, especially after the renovation. If something goes wrong, they can be at your house quickly.
A good place to start searching is websites like Angi or Nextdoor. It’s also smart to chat with neighbors, coworkers, and friends about any contractors they’ve recently hired.
- Compare Your Options
Once you have a list of possible contractors recommended to you, compare them to find the best service at the best price.
Call each company to explain your project and ask for an estimate. It’s recommended you compare at least 3 estimates to ensure you’re getting the right price.
If you’re on a budget, the cheapest option might be an obvious choice. However, keep in mind that some companies charge less for a reason – maybe their workers are less experienced, or their products are low quality.
- Consider The Company Reputation
Before you move forward with a budget-friendly contracting company, you should also consider its reputation. Some things you will want to look for include:
- Does the company have good reviews, if any at all?
- Does it have testimonials or referrals?
- How long has it been running?
- Does it have the required qualifications? (Permits, licenses, insurance, etc.)
- Do they communicate quickly and effectively?
- Have they worked on projects similar in scope to yours?
- Do they demand up-front payment? (If so, watch out – this is likely a scam)
Once again consulting with the internet, family, friends, and community members can help rule out any unqualified or underperforming contractors.
>> Here are 5 home improvement tips that can make your house safer.
Homeowners Insurance in PA, MD, and WV
Your home is a major investment, and every renovation project you complete serves to boost its value. The right contractor will help you add value!
Unfortunately, life can be unpredictable, and everything you’ve worked so hard to build can be destroyed in an instant. That’s why homeowners insurance is so important for protecting your most valuable assets.
Here at Antietam Insurance, we provide customizable personal insurance plans that are catered to your unique needs and your budget. We are a locally owned, independently operated company with nearly 70 years of experience.
We are proud to serve Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. Call now to speak to one of our friendly agents.