Tips for Choosing the Right Contractor:

If you’re having trouble selecting which contractor might best meet your needs, and you don’t want to have to rely on a dart board to make your decision, here are a few things to look for when picking the best from the bunch.

• Licensing & Insurance Coverage– Not every state requires a license, so be sure to check what the standard is for your area. Ask your local municipalities about permits and certification requirements. Does the contractor have adequate workman’s compensation and general liability coverage?
• Trade Association Membership–Trade associations for contractors and builders like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) promote continuing education and certification to its members. You may also be able to get background information about your contractor from your local builders association or Better Business Bureau.
• Referrals– References should be recent and reliable. Some contractors may have a portfolio displaying samples of their past work. Don’t forget to inquire about any subcontractors who may be working with your contractor.
• Specialization– Does the contractor have a specialty, and does it match the work you’d like to do?
• Business Longevity– How many years has the contractor been in business? How much experience does he or she have?
• Contracts & Warranties– A quality contractor knows that putting it in writing protects both the contractor and the buyer. All project specifications, work schedule and payment terms should be included. The contractor should provide a written warranty with specific definitions of what is covered, for how long, and how claims are to be handled.