5 Perfect Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor

Hiring the wrong contractor for a job can cost you time, money and grief if you haven’t done your research or asked him the right questions. Here are five important questions to ask a contractor before hiring them.

1. How long have you worked in this industry?

Experience and the amount of jobs completed are important factors to consider when hiring a contractor. A contractor that has quite a few years of experience under his belt will have a network of subcontractors, suppliers and a local reputation to uphold. Also, if they have kept their business in your local area for that amount of time, then it is a safer bet than hiring someone who will have to commute from 40 miles away.

2. Are you licensed?

One of the most important questions to ask them is if they are a licensed contractor. This is because obtaining a proper license in the state or city they work in will help ensure that the contractor has been trained in the right practices and regulations specific to him.

3. Do you carry general liability and workers compensation insurance?

This is your “just in case” question. If any injuries or property damage occurs on the site, you may be held responsible for these costs unless the contractor carries both general liability and workers compensation insurance.

4. How much will this project cost?

Make sure to get costs involved with your contract in writing and your estimates are detailed so when you compare others you know exactly what you are paying for. Be careful of contractors that have significantly lower quotes than others as they might not be factoring in materials and labor into their cost.

5. Who will be in charge of the job when it starts?

Finally, ask who will be in charge on your property when the job starts. You will want either the contractor or the foreman/lead carpenter on the job daily wherever the job is located. They need to be familiar will all aspects of the project and you need to be comfortable with them as they will be constantly working in and outside your home.

Hiring a contractor can be a little stressful and time consuming. Cortiers Real Estate is here to help though!

Let our team of realtors guide you towards finding the best match for a contractor today. Check out our website or give us a call!