A good way to increase the aesthetics and value of your home is by remodeling it. Although this process can be overwhelming, its benefits are numerous. Apart from improving the aesthetic of your property, remodeling can help you utilize extra spaces and also increase the value of your property.
If you are planning to remodel your home and you not sure of how to find the perfect contractor for the job, listed below are seven tips for finding a contractor for your home remodel
WHAT DO YOU WANT
When looking for the best contractor for your home remodel, it is quite important that you know what you want. Knowing what and how you want it makes it easy for you to develop a plan. Having a plan on the ground makes it easy to invite professionals like Renovations Calgary over to draw estimates. This plan also makes it easy for you to know the type of remodeler you need. It also allows for easy comparison of estimates.
TYPE OF REMODELER
Remodeling ranges from interior design to living room expansion, kitchen remodeling as well as outdoor landscaping. As such, each form of remodeling project calls for a different type of contractor. Although some companies claim to be able to handle all types of remodeling projects, do not fall for that. It is best you hire a company that specializes in your type of remodeling.
According to the National Association of Remodeling Industry, there are four different types of remodeling professionals. Listed below is a brief explanation of their functions;
- Architect
They are involved in large projects that involve drawing to scale and restructuring building projects. They are concerned with space management and structural integrity.
- Designers
While an architect is concerned with the integrity of the structure, the designer is interested in the interior designs, shape, color, lighting, and styles. They are interested in what is referred to as the aesthetics of the building.
- General Contractors:
General contractors dwell more on the method than design. So if your project doesn’t require the attention of a professional designer, a general contractor will suffice.
- The Design/Build Contractor:
If you plan to hire a single company to do construction and design, then a design/build firm is what you should go for.
REVIEWS AND REFERENCES
In order to hire the best remodeling contractor, you have to put in some work. This comes in the form of researching and checking for reviews online. Reviews from previous clients will go a long way in guiding your decisions. You can get information on how the client was treated, dispute management, projected management, services, etc. Although this may not be enough, it will reduce the risk of getting into the wrong hand. You can get reviews from social media handles like Twitter, Facebook, etc. Also from business listing websites like yelp and then from the company’s google map listing.
LICENSE, INSURANCE, AND PERMIT
A certified contractor should have the needed license to carry out remodeling work. If need be, you can request a copy of their license. They must also have insurance that covers property damage, accidents, and employee compensation in cases of injuries. The contractor should have required permits as stated by the law of the state where it is domicile.
ENQUIRE ABOUT HOA COMPLIANCE
In a case where you live in a community guided by the rules and regulations of the homeowners association, it is your responsibility to make sure that the contractor complies with the defined standards. For instance, in some cases, the use of noisy equipment may be restricted to a specific period of the day. To avoid confrontations, the observance of HOA regulations is important. In this type of situation, your best bet is to hire a contractor within the community.
HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES
Health and Safety measures should be considered. Safety measures like the use of plastic sheets in and around the work environment to prevent clouds of dust from flying around, use of one exit door for heavy and work materials, and the other door by the occupant should be upheld. Health measures like the evacuation of old asbestos before the commencement of work should be adhered to. This way, health hazards can be prevented.
PRICING, PAYMENT, AND TERMS
Before finalizing the cost of the project with any contractor, you should get estimates from about three different contractors. This will enable you to know how to bargain with the contractor you decide to go with.
Additionally, you should avoid making your choice based on pricing. Going for the one with the lowest or highest price is not always the best idea.
While picking the payment plan, ensure to go for a payment structure with spacing. For instance, you can pay an initial deposit of 10% before the commencement of the project and pay the remaining in batches throughout the project duration. Endeavor to understand properly the terms and conditions of the contractor before putting pen to paper.
Considering the factors above will make it easy to choose the best contractor for you.
