HOW TO CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR

The most critical factor in having a successful contracting project is selecting the right contractor.

We understand that homeowner's have a variety of concerns when seeking out a company to work with. These are called the 4 P's of Owner Protection:

•  Problems – What are the problems that are causing the need for construction?

•  Products – What products and procedures solve those problems?

•  People – Who is the contractor to install the products and how do you qualify them?

•  Price – How do you determine if the price quoted is fair and competitive?

We suggest that you evaluate each of these components with equal emphasis. You want to select a contractor that can work to your expectations. The contractor that you choose to work with should satisfy your expectations and needs in all four areas. By focusing on problems, products, people, or price alone you may find yourself with big problems in another area down the road.

There are six questions that you will want to ask every contractor that you meet with.

1. What is the full name and address of the company?
If the contractor does not have a permanent place of business, you cannot be confident that he will complete the work. Only select a contractor who is financially committed to the business.

2. Does the company carry insurance and is the coverage adequate?
Any contractor that you are considering should be able to provide you with Insurance Certificates for Liability and Worker's Compensation. You may want to call their insurance companies to confirm that they are indeed covered. Most homeowner policies do not cover injuries of contractors and their employees.

3. Is the company a licensed contractor?
Maryland , Virginia and Washington DC laws require contractors to be licensed in order to perform home improvements. This is one measure of the reliability of a contractor. Another measure is their membership to trade associations. Memberships are another indication of dedication and ties to the industry.

4. How long has the contractor been in business?
Contractors that have been in the business for less than 5-years must be approached with extra caution. Most businesses will close within the first 5-years of opening. A contractor that has been in business for more than 5-years will have more experience and has demonstrated a dedication to the industry.

5. What is the contractor's track record for handling complaints?
Ask the contractor about difficult situations they have faced in the past, and how they were resolved. Every contractor will have at least one problem they can discuss with you. Be sure to pay attention to how the problem was remedied – is this how you would want the situation handled?

6. What is the company's workmanship warranty?
While a longer warranty may seem more attractive than a shorter warranty, be sure to pay attention to what is covered by the warranty. If it seems “too good to be true”, it probably is!

For a free booklet, “How to Make a Successful Construction Investment”, complete our free estimate form. This booklet will help to guide you on the critical questions you need to ask yourself and contractors that you meet with.

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