I have a friend out in Texas that once told me some horror stories he hears about people getting burned by home builders that aren’t always 100% about the customer. He owns a business called Appliance Repair San Antonio and when he told me these stories, it makes you think twice about not researching what your buying. He told me that nobody wants to deal with home or appliance repairs a few months after moving into a new home. That’s why many people are determined to hire the best contractor. Perhaps, before you hire a contractor, you should know that your choice can make or break your construction project. That’s because the skills and experience of a contractor will determine how well or bad your construction plan will be executed. Therefore, be thorough to ensure that you hire the best expert for the job.
Here are some of the key questions to ask a prospective contractor:
What is the history of your business?
Before hiring a contractor, dig deeper to know the history of their business. This will enable you to determine whether they are genuine contractors that have been in the industry long enough to know what works best and what does not. Also find out whether the contractor is a member of a professional association because this is a sign of good conduct. After investigating the history of a contractor, move on to their practices.
Who supplies your construction materials?
You don’t want your property to be built with low quality materials. Therefore, find out where the contractor gets construction materials from. Find out whether the contractor has sufficient measures in place to ensure that no substandard materials find their way into the buildings of the clients. That way, you will be guaranteed the integrity of your building.
Is your bid a fixed price or an estimate?
Nobody likes being surprised with hidden charges. Therefore, clear things up by asking about the bid of the contractor. In most cases, contractors treat bids as construction cost estimates. That means the total construction cost can be higher than what they state in their bid. Nevertheless, you can ask for a fixed price. On the same note, discuss how you will pay for the project.
How long will my construction project take?
Find out when the contractor will start and complete your project. Make sure that the contractor clarifies issues that may affect the stipulated schedule.
These are some of the questions to ask before you hire a contractor. Generally, a genuine contractor won’t have difficulties in answering any question that you pose to them.