When selecting your builder here are a few items you want to keep in mind:
General Contractors manage all aspects of your project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting building permits and scheduling inspectors. They also work with architects and designers.
Not all contractors operate within the law. Here are some tips to make sure you are working with a reputable builder.
A reputable builder will not:
- Solicit door-to-door
- Offer discounts for finding other customers
- Use material he already has on hand
- Only accept cash
- Ask you to get required building permits
- Only have a mobile number and no business listing in the telephone directory
- Tell you that your job will be a demonstration
- Pressure you for an immediate decision
- Offer exceptionally long guarantees
- Ask you to pay for the entire job up-front
- Suggest that you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows
Find out how long your contractor has been in business.
Look for a well established company. Are they licensed and registered with the state? Ask for a list of references. Ask them if they will be using subcontractor on the project. What kind of insurance do they carry?
Checking References
Were you satisfied with the project? Was it completed on time? Did the contractor keep you informed about the status of your project? Were there unexpected cost? If so, what were they? Did workers show up on time? Did they clean up after finishing the job? Would you recommend the contractor? Would you use the contractor again?