If you are looking for a contractor to make repairs or replacements to your home or business, you want to make sure you are choosing someone who is licensed, insured, and experienced. You also want to make sure you are choosing someone who is competent, and reasonably priced.
So how can you find a contractor you can trust?
Read Reviews.
Yelp, Angie’s List, Consumer Reports, and the Better Business Bureau are great places to start when searching for the right contractor.
Ask for Recommendations.
Start with people you know who have had similar work done and were satisfied with the results. You can also ask your insurance company for recommendations, the Chamber of Commerce, your homeowners association, neighbors, colleagues or friends.
Interview Contractors.
There is nothing wrong with asking questions when looking for the right contractor. Ask them how long they expect the work to take from beginning to end, how long they have been in business, how many similar jobs they have completed. You may even want see examples of previous work they have done or ask for references.
Request Multiple Bids.
When you decide to do a big project, like upgrading your windows, it is always best to get bids from different contractors. We recommend getting at least 3 bids. This will not only help you get the best price, but shopping around and talking to several potential contractors will give you a better idea of who you will really be working with. You may even decide to go with a bid that is not the lowest because you feel they will do a better job.
Also be on the lookout for warning signs or “red flags” telling you that your potential contractor may not be reputable. Asking for all of the money in advance or refusing to provide references can be red flags. Trust your gut and make sure you are not being pressured.
Finding the right contractor for your next project can be challenging, but is worth the time and effort. After all, you want to make sure everything is done correctly the first time. You also want to make sure you are getting the best value for your money. Making repairs to your home or business is an investment that should raise the value of your property for years to come.
