10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Contractor or Remodeler

When you are ready to remodel your home, you want to make sure you have a great experience, right?  One of the most important decisions is deciding which contractor will assist you with your vision.  We suggest the following list of Questions to Ask When Choosing a Contractor to ensure that you have a professional remodeler by your side.  After all, your home is likely your biggest investment.  Here are 10 questions you should ask a contractor before you begin any remodeling or renovation project!

10 Best Questions to Ask Your Contractor

1. What Are Your Credentials and Experience?  You can usually find a contractor’s credentials with a visit to their website. Any reputable contractor should have federal, state, and community licenses, as well as associations with professional organizations such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry or the National Association of Homebuilders. Contractors who are part of these industry associations generally understand and abide by best practices and a code of ethics. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) tracks consumer complaints and rates businesses accordingly.  Make sure you check on the BBB rating for each contractor you interview.
2. How Many Remodels Have You Completed?  You may find a perfectly reputable contractor, but he or she may not be experienced in the type of remodeling project you’re planning. For example, if you’re planning to redo the entire kitchen, don’t hire someone whose main specialty is cabinets. If you’re knocking down or moving walls, make sure your contractor has electrical experience or works closely with certified electricians.
3. How Many Testimonials Do You Have?  Every contractor works with a different client base, and some may be smaller than others. Ideally though, you want your contractor to have a diverse client base with lots of testimonials and references for projects like yours. Make sure they provide email and phone numbers for their references, so you can communicate directly with them.
4. Will The Contractor Use a Design-Build Approach?  Parker Design | Build | Remodel, recommends a design-build approach.  Different than the old 3 bid approach, this approach provides the opportunity to consider current pricing, building trends and scheduling during the design phase, which dramatically reduces surprises, change orders and overruns as the project moves forward.  The architect, designer and contractor may also be able to value-engineer certain aspects of the project, during the design phase, and recommend alternative products or services that may reduce cost and/or improve efficiency and help you stay within your budget.
5. Do You Support My Project?  One of the best things a contractor can do is listen to his or her clients – and one of the worst things a contractor can do is try to convince you to change your vision or offer unsolicited advice. Make sure the contractor you choose is willing to listen to your plans and implement them. Clarify where you will most need the contractor’s help so he or she knows your expectations.
6. What is Your Company Like? When searching for contractors, you will need to interview at least three candidates. As you do, get a feel for the company they come from, their policies, pricing, and other factors. Choose the contractor from the best company for you.
7. Are You Insured? Accidents can and do happen on the job, so ask about insurance coverage and get a certificate of insurance before any work commences.
8. May I See Your Contract? Always be aware of what you have signed up for and read the fine print. A well written contract will protect both parties in the event of a disagreement and provide fair resolutions, in the state where the work is being done, through arbitration or other means.
9. What are Your Pricing Guidelines? Always make sure the contractor understands your budget constraints.  Be prepared to have a 15-20% contingency for any unforeseen issues that typically arise during a remodel.
10. Are You a Clean Remodeler?  Dust during a remodeling project is inevitable.  It can subject you and your family to irritants that can trigger allergies, asthma or other issues. Parker Design Build Remodel is a clean remodeler and utilizes innovative techniques to dramatically reduce the dust in your home, during your remodeling project.  While no project is ever dust-free, you’ll know the difference between a contractor who respects your home and will work hard to provide you the cleanest experience possible.

We believe that when a homeowner is educated on the remodeling process, they will be able to make informed decisions that lead to a better remodeling experience.  Download our Free Guide to Selecting A Contractor to learn more.  Our mission is to make the remodeling process exciting and rewarding by providing an experience that guides you step by step on “Your Journey To A Better Home.” Contact Parker Design Build today to get started!