Selecting a Contractor

Finding the right contractor is an important step for any building or remodeling project. Here are a few steps that can help ensure you’re happy with the end results:

  1. The best contractors get a lot of business by word of mouth. So a great way to begin your search for a contractor is by asking friends and neighbors who’ve had work done on their own homes. Then check with the National Association of Home Builders if you’re starting new construction. Or, if you’re remodeling your home, consult the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) for a list of members in your area.
  1. Once you’ve got a list of potential contractors, make sure to visit the Better Business Bureau to look up the histories of the contractors you’re considering. Or visit 1800Contractor.com, Angie’s List, Contractors.com, Houzz or another third-party resource where you can find other contractors near you, while checking out their portfolios of work.
  1. You’ll also want to check to see that any contractor you’re considering working with is licensed and insured. In this way, you’ll be protected if any accidents or mishaps occur, as their insurance should cover it. You want your contractors to be properly licensed because it means they’ve passed tests that ensure they know their craft. It’s also a good idea to check your homeowners insurance coverage before work begins.
  1. Likewise, it makes sense to check to see if your potential contractor is a member of or has been certified by an industry group like NARI, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), or the NAHB Remodeling Council. Membership and/or certification by these associations show a level of commitment to professional standards.
  1. Lastly, be sure to ask for a list of customer references and call them to ask questions about the work and maybe even plan a visit to see the contractor’s work firsthand.

Taking all these steps is a smart way to help ensure that the contractor you select gives you the results and experience you want.