By Jamie Spence | Contributor
Kathleen and Ted* engaged a contractor they discovered on Facebook for some remodeling work in their home. After seeing positive recommendations, a few images of previous projects, and noting several mutual friends, they felt confident and signed the contract, paying a 50% deposit. Two months later, however, only half of the work was completed, and the contractor was nowhere to be found. To make matters worse, their money had vanished as well. Their attorney informed them that pursuing legal action would be more costly than the loss itself, leading them to reluctantly abandon the case and search for a new contractor. With a reduced budget, they had to scale back their remodeling plans significantly to proceed.
Such stories are all too common. Unlike many other states, Texas has no requirements for passing a test or filing paperwork to become a general contractor. Previously, home improvement contractors needed to register their businesses with the state, but this is no longer required. Consequently, anyone can start a social media page or place a sign on their vehicle and declare themselves open for business. These “Chuck in a truck” contractors can vary widely in quality: some deliver excellent results, others do subpar work, and some disappear entirely along with clients’ funds.
How can you prevent this situation from happening to you? Here are five important points to consider when hiring a home remodeling contractor:
1. Find out how long they’ve been in business.
Look for contractors with a proven track record that you can verify. Do they employ staff who have been with the company for years, or do they rely on day laborers? Can they offer references from past clients? Do they maintain a current, professional website? Are there online reviews? While it’s not inherently bad to give a new contractor a chance, unless you know them well enough to trust their experience and character, it’s wiser to choose someone who has been in the business for a significant period of time. What qualifies as a significant period is up to you, but regardless of whether it’s a year or ten, ensure you can obtain a list of references to confirm the quality of their work.
2. Ask questions regarding their standards.
A clear set of standards distinguishes professionals from amateurs. Knowledgeable contractors will be able to explain their quality control measures. If you notice a contractor looking confused when you inquire about their standards, it’s wise to continue your search.
3. Talk time-frames.
Delays in materials and supplies are prevalent currently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although items that could typically be procured in a few days may now take weeks, you shouldn’t want your project to be indefinitely stalled. Understand the expected time-frame for project completion and consider requesting a time-frame contingency in your contract with the contractor.
4. Be sure about insurance.
Always select a contractor who has insurance covering their employees.
5. Find out what preparations you would need to make before the project starts and what responsibilities you will have in the process.
Gather the essential details before initiating the project. Certain types of remodeling work may require that tasks be completed in a specific order. Others can be carried out at any time. Some renovations might incur additional costs if done out of order. You might have certain responsibilities to address or preparations to complete before work can begin on your project; in some cases, you may need to do absolutely nothing. Lori Yeary, co-owner of Liberty Glass & Mirror, assures her clients that they can relax, confident that her company will surpass their expectations.
Regardless of the project you envision, collaborating with a trustworthy contractor is essential. You or their personnel will be in or around your home for an extended period. Moreover, you could be living with the outcomes for many years, so quality work is vital. Investing the necessary time to find a contractor with a solid reputation for skill, experience, and meticulousness is worthwhile to ensure the job is done right.
*names changed for privacy
A beautiful master bath remodel.
Photo courtesy of Liberty Glass and Mirror
Star Interior Resources offers custom cabinetry, kitchen remodels, granite countertops, trim work, and more.
