How to hire a high quality, trustworthy contractor (Part Two of How to hire a contractor)
This week’s post is short and to the point. It can be hard to know what questions will help you find the best contractor out there. After you search on Google, Yelp or Facebook for a contractor, here is the second step before you give them a call or request a quote:
Check online reviews:
Do your homework! Don’t go with a contractor who has poor reviews, or no reviews. When you call, ask about other jobs they have successfully finished that are similar to what you are asking them to do.
Figure out your budget:
Don’t have champagne tastes on a tap water diet. This is 2022, and contractors are facing supply chain issues, labor shortages, increased regulations, expensive insurance, and higher prices across the board. Like the old saying goes, “You can get something cheap, quick or done right, but you can only pick two.” These days, we recommend getting it done right. Otherwise you may end up having to spend MORE money repairing the job a second time a few years later!
Know how quickly you need it done:
If you want something done right, ask a busy person. Good contractors today will be busy, so plan accordingly! In Western Pennsylvania, dirt work can usually be done from April through November. If possible, plan ahead during the slow season (December through March) and schedule the work in advance if you want it done that year.
Know what a high-quality job looks like to you:
Some people want left alone during a project until the bill comes in the mail and the job is finished. Other people want one check-in a day while the job is in progress, and one check-in per week when there is a delay for parts, materials or bad weather. Some homeowners expect there to be no dirt whatsoever on a job site, others forget to tell the contractor when they are hosting a party or will have a boat or large vehicle blocking the driveway. Some people want a check in every couple of hours. The point is, know what you want! Make a list of everything you can think of, and share it! That will determine whether the contractor will be a good fit for you.
Share anything else you are thinking about:
Don’t make your contractor guess or try to read your mind. Write it down before you call and tell them directly from the beginning. Clear communication of your expectations will make the job go much more smoothly.
It’s also okay to tell them that you aren’t sure about any of the above. Remember, an above-average contractor will know what questions to ask you as well! How to spot red flags for contractors will be covered in Part 3 of this series.
In the meantime, best of luck in your search. If you think we would be a good fit for you, give us a call today!
