How to Hire a Home Remodeling Contractor

We wrote this post on how to hire any remodeling contractor. Advice on ways to avert a remodeling nightmare.

Having worked several years for Naperville home addition contractor contractors, we discovered a couple of things besides how to waterproof a shower or build a room addition. We learned firsthand that there are contractors out there lying and looking to benefit from you, the homeowner.

The bad and ugly

"Some" contractors will inform you just about anything to market their occupation. They make up stories and will make promises. Who wants to work with someone like that or have to manage that person for 3 months or so? You will need a contractor that has your back. This implies that one who will do whatever it takes to make the job right and make you more happy. At least that is what we think a contractor should do. The sad truth is some contractors view your project as a money making experience and much less as one remodeling experience. We know contractors twice your age with half the knowledge. They are only businessmen with not much construction experience.

Insider tips

Watch out for salesmen! Maybe they have the job a week and After getting fired by the used car dealer. Our experience with sales folks is that they will let you know exactly what you're seeking to hear to close the deal but they barely know the facts. When your project has been assembled they will not be around. Who will be in charge of running your work and the employees? Talk to the contractor! You will need to talk to their references. Call the homeowner and ask a bunch of questions like, did they do as promised? Did they create change requests? Can they finish on time? How can you rate the quality? 

We also recommend speak to the homeowner and to see the recently finished job and see that the work on your own. Be sure that the contractor doesn't go. They won't mind if the client was really happy and they'll be happy to promote the contractors business. Think about it, they were in your shoes a few months ago.

Get it in writing

Make sure you have the details recorded on your contract. Make Sure you do not pay before work completion and have a payment / progress schedule. Get a start and finish date. We've observed remodeling contractors blame the homeowner because the job didn't go as intended. Do not offer them a budget that would be like giving your credit card to a child. You need to have a list of what it is you're getting for that sum and price.

Do not be scared

This guide is meant to protect you, not scare you. You will find you have to guard your home for the ones that are terrible and be informed, although good home additions Glen Ellyn contractors out there. Bear in mind to look out for the wolf in sheep's clothing or something like this.

Finally check online for reviews and also the contractors' board.