How to Find a Good Contractor:

It is important to understand the steps necessary to find and hire the right contractor for any home improvement project. As the owner of Westmoreland Contractor Referral service, I always provide these tips to homeowners. The first step begins once you have decided on your project. Now that you know what you what to do, it is time to begin the process of finding that home improvement contractor that can bring your home remodeling ideas to life and beautify your home. The process takes time and involves a great deal of research, so be patient and give your self plenty of time during the selection process.

The top ten tips that I always provide to homeowners starting a home improvement project include the following steps when selecting the best contractor.

1. Start asking friends, neighbors, and local businesses for referrals. This is just that starting point to compile a list of potential contractors. The local lumberyards, painting stores, and electrical supply stores, will know the contractors, usually personally, and will be able to assist you based on the information you provide about your project. Friends, neighbors, and co-workers will know of the contractors work first hand, or will know the quality of work the contractor did for someone they know. If you have a local contractor referral service in your area, I would recommend talking to them. Remember, they are providing a local service to assist the homeowner to find a reliable contractor and they are staking their reputation on your satisfaction.

2. Now that you have a list of potential contractors, start researching each one. Look for the contractor that is well established in the community and has experience in the improvement type project you are planning. Some contractors offer specialized services, such as concrete stamping, custom woodworking, and interior design services.

3. Research the contractor by contacting your local Better Business, state department of consumer affairs, and local chamber of commerce. Find out if the contractor has any complaints recorded against them.

4. Contact your state licensing department and find out what the license requirements are for your area. Another great source is your local municipality. Call them and ask about license, permits, and insurance requirements as well.

5. Now you have the information that you will need to be an informed consumer. The next step is to call the contractor. The initial contact will provide you with a first impression. Was the contractor pleasant and courteous? Did the contractor return your call promptly? Did the contractor set up an appointment with you within a reasonable time (usually within 24 hours)?

6. During the initial phone call ask pertinent questions, such as do you have insurance, license, how long have you been in business, what is your specialty, how many employees? If time is a priority for you, ask how soon a project could be started.

7. Meet the contractor and provide a clear detailed description of the project. Include as much information as possible, including materials, budget, time frame, and any other important information about your expectations. It is always a good idea to be as honest and open with the contractor as possible. The contractor should never guess about your project and you should make every attempt to ensure the contractor understands what you want. As you are discussing the project with the contractor, pay attention to body language and voice tone. Remember, based on the size of the project you will be working with this person, in your home, and you must feel comfortable.

8. Obtain a detailed estimate. Make sure it includes a complete description with materials. An estimate should include a projected start time and the project duration. An estimate should include a note that states if the price could change and if so what percentage. If you request any changes during the project, make sure you get a complete updated document that shows exactly what changes has been made and the impact on the final price.

9. Ask for a copy of a certificate of insurance or the name and phone number of the insurance company. Contact the insurance company and verify the policy is current. Get at least three references from the contractor and make sure you call them and ask them about the quality of work, satisfaction, was it completed on time, and would they hire them again.

10. Compare all the estimates you have received and make sure that each one contains the same information. If you added something to the project between meetings with contractors, the estimates are not similar. A caution is always necessary when homeowners decide based on lowest price only. Make sure that the estimates contain the same quality materials; some times the lowest bid is not using the same quality materials. Once you select the contractor for your dream home improvement project remember you have three days to cancel the contract.

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