Find the Best Help for Your Job with These Important Questions

Working with a qualified, reputable contractor is one of the most critical parts of your home renovation project. You need to be able to rely on your contractor’s experience, training, judgment, and ability to deliver the project within the set timeline and budget.

It’s a good idea to interview at least three different contractors for your Kansas City remodeling job. Check reviews online and ask for personal references too. When you’ve got a short list, here are the five most important questions to ask a potential contractor.

1. What is Your Experience?

As one of the most important questions, it will probably help you get a good idea of how working with this contractor will go and what your project will look like in the end.

Other relevant follow-up questions include:

• How many years have you been in business?
• Do you have any specific experience in this area or job?
• How do you handle unexpected events during the renovation?

Also, building permits are a big part of most remodeling jobs. So, make sure it’s clear who is responsible for applying and receiving the permits. Also, ask them what kind if permits you would need for this project and how many permits have they acquired for similar projects recently.

It’s helpful to be able to gauge if your job will be completed on schedule and on budget. Inquire about the contractor’s record of completing work on time and within the budget. If they’ve veered outside of the timeline and budget, why?

2. Are You Licensed, and What is Your Insurance Coverage?

It is in your best interest to work with a qualified, licensed contractor who follows a process. It protects you and them as well.

What sort of credentials or training does the contractor have? Are they licensed? What sort of insurance does the contractor possess? At the very least, your contractor should have general liability insurance. They should also be prepared to show you proof of insurance. Don’t take the person’s word for it; demand proof of coverage.

And remember, being licensed isn’t the same as being insured.

3. What Are Your Expectations on the Job Site?

As with all relationships, professional and personal, the key to success lies in effective communication and in setting expectations.

Find out what your potential contractor’s policies are around things like work hours, breaks, bathroom use, use of sub-contractors, and clean up when the job is completed.

4. Do You Provide a Contract?

In order to protect both parties and to manage expectations, it is a good idea to have a detailed contract that you both agree to at the outset. The contract should outline the estimated timeline, who buys the materials, and the payment schedule.

5. Is There Aftercare?

This question is critical. You must find out if you are entitled to service afterward in the event that something goes wrong. Does the contractor offer a guarantee, warranty, or service after a job is completed?

Ask the right questions and explain your expectations, and you’ll find a contractor that’s the best fit for your project.