Things to look for when selecting a contractor
- Compare quality and workmanship.
- Look at contractor's previous work. In most cases, this will be the deciding factor.
- Check for license, homeowner can be fined if found guilty of hiring a contractor without a proper license.
- Verify the contractor is in good standing with local building department.
- Verify proof of workman's compensation. If a contractor does not have it, and one of his employees are injured on your property, you could be liable.
- What is the warranty?
- How long has the contractor been in business, will he be there to honor the warranty, if necessary?
- Does the contractor have an experienced workforce that is large enough to complete the contract in a timely manner?
- Every contractor has their own designs, some are better than others.
- Ask for references from other customers.
- Compare plans and specs. Make sure you are comparing apples to apples; in many cases the lowest bid is not the best value.