vWhether you’re renovating your kitchen, adding an outdoor deck, or changing the overall layout of your home, it’s important to choose a general contractor with experience and expertise. Hiring a contractor who isn’t licensed or insured may cost less, but it could lead to problems down the line.
One way to find a reliable contractor is to ask for personal recommendations from friends and family members. Another is to visit recent projects in person and evaluate the craftsmanship and professionalism of the work.
Experience
A general contractor serves as the lead professional on construction projects and oversees the specialized work of subcontractors. This can include obtaining necessary permits, assessing project costs, scheduling timelines, and providing quality control of the overall renovation project. Typically, they manage the hiring and management of subcontractors for specific tasks like plumbing or electrical.
When choosing a general contractor, you should look for references and examples of their previous work. Ask to see photos of their past work and talk to their clients about their experience working with the contractor. Then, schedule a visit to their current job site to observe their safety protocols, professionalism, and work ethic.
Once you’ve done your research, request and compare quotes from contractors in your area. Make sure each bid includes a detailed cost breakdown of materials, labor, and permit costs. Look for red flags like vague descriptions, unreasonably low pricing compared to other bids, or missing permit costs.
A good general contractor will provide you with a clear and thorough scope of work that is in line with your budget. They’ll also be honest about any potential challenges, ensuring realistic expectations and timelines for your home renovation project. This can save you a lot of headaches down the road. It’s also worth mentioning that if a contractor doesn’t pay their subcontractors or suppliers, you could be left with unfinished work and a mechanic’s lien on your property.
Licenses
A reputable general contractor will have a valid license for the specific work they perform. Licensing is typically done at the city or county level, and the requirements vary by location. In the state, for example, those constructing new one- to three-family homes and commercial buildings need to register with the Department of Buildings. In addition, those performing home improvement or renovation work in the city must be licensed.
A licensed general contractor will be able to provide the necessary documents, including the proper insurance coverage for the project, and will demonstrate their knowledge of construction techniques. They also have the experience to handle all of the details, including coordinating with workers, handling permits, and maintaining budgets and timelines.
Reliable contractors prioritize clear communication and realistic expectations throughout the duration of the project, helping clients to stay within their project budgets while completing high-quality results. They are respectful of their clients’ belongings and home spaces, outlining plans for preserving cleanliness and minimizing disruptions throughout the work process. They also understand the complexities of working in urban settings and communicate clearly with clients about potential challenges they may face, ensuring alignment with project goals. Specialty contractors, such as elevator contractors and asbestos contractors, typically require occupation-specific licensing. The Uhire Professional License Search tool can help verify whether these professionals have been properly licensed to ply their trade in the state.
Insurance
Reputable contractors carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance. They also have a portfolio of work they can provide for review, and are likely to be affiliated with professional organizations in the industry that support high standards and best practices.
General contractors are responsible for managing a project from start to finish, handling all aspects of a construction job, and coordinating with the architect or engineer. They may complete specialized construction work themselves or manage a team of subcontractors that performs the various construction trades, such as plumbers, electricians, bricklayers, carpenters, and iron workers.
A comprehensive general contractor insurance policy covers damage to client property or injuries that occur on the job site. Many lenders and commercial landlords require proof of this coverage before they will rent or lease space. It is sometimes bundled with business property insurance or included in a small business owner’s policy.
Depending on your location, there are many insurers that offer excellent general contractor insurance policies for residential or commercial general contractors. For larger commercial general contractors, Travelers has a superb policy with broad coverage and reasonable minimum premiums. They also provide a free risk and site evaluation to help keep your business at its best. Southwest Marine is a good option for general contractors who do mostly residential work. They have flexible coverage with a higher limit and can include COI monitoring in the policy.
Reputation
When hiring a general contractor for a construction or renovation project, you want to hire one with a solid reputation. A reputable contractor will provide quality workmanship, excellent customer service, and value for your money. This will give you peace of mind and a hassle-free experience with your construction project.
Silva suggests asking for referrals from friends, family members, and business associates to find out more about contractors’ work ethics and professionalism. You may also want to see some of their completed projects in person to get a feel for their craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Reputable general contractors always strive to meet or exceed client expectations. They respect a client’s home and personal belongings and will make every effort to minimize disruptions during the project. They will also provide detailed plans, estimates, and schedules for the project to ensure transparency and avoid any surprises down the road.
When leaving a review on popular online review platforms, be sure to use a respectful and professional tone, even when addressing issues that you were not satisfied with. You should also disclose any discounts, incentives, or compensation received in exchange for a positive review, which will help to maintain the integrity of the online review ecosystem.
