Hiring a contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner, yet few people have experience with the process. Don’t be intimidated when you need to hire a contractor. Instead, learn the techniques that will help you find the right contractor and hire them with confidence.
1. Get Recommendations
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel when hiring a contractor. Gather recommendations from friends and neighbors. Visit your local home improvement store and ask them who they recommend. If you have a trusted contractor for one area of home repair, ask whether they know anyone who can do the type of work you need.
2. Do Phone Interviews
Phone interviews can help you narrow down the candidates on your list and get a feel for how different contractors can help you. Ask contractors if they take projects like yours, how many clients they work with at once, how long the job will take, and if you can speak with references. After you complete phone interviews, select the contractors who seem like the best fit and move forward with face-to-face appointments.
3. Meet in Person
Meeting in person will allow you to get answers to all your questions, speak about your needs, and learn about the contractor’s vision. Clear communication is key. You’ll know when someone has the right skills and experience to do the work and when they’re passionate about what they do. After you meet in person, solicit bids from those contractors who you liked.
4. Check References
Speaking with other homeowners who hired the contractor can give you confidence and peace of mind. Always call at least one reference from a contractor before hiring.
5. Compare Bids
Be wary of lowball bids. Cost is not everything with home improvement projects, you need the whole package. At each step of the way, you should narrow down your list of contractors. By the time bids come in, you should have a short list. Compare the bids, references, and your notes from in person meetings to select the contractor who is the right fit for your needs.
Get a Free Estimate
Brandstetter’s KangaRoof has 15 years of experience serving the Cincinnati area with contracting services including roof work, gutters, skylights, and chimney service. To talk over your needs with a licensed contractor and get a free estimate, contact us today.
