We’ve all heard the horror stories of home design and renovation projects gone wrong: workers not showing up, additional fees, extra time, subpar results. If you make the decision to invest the time, money and energy into a home project, you want it done well and you want it done correctly — on time and on budget. But, it can certainly be daunting and overwhelming to decide whom to hire — whom to trust — to carry out your design and building vision. Will the project be completed on time? Will my contractor stick to the budget we agreed upon? And, most importantly, will I love the end result?
Pam Palmer, from Palmer Custom Builders in North Carolina, writes about the pitfalls of hiring the wrong contractor:
“ ...all too many well-meaning homeowners do fall victim to contractors who are either dishonest or just wrong for their particular projects. Every month, we meet homeowners who tell us stories about having chosen the wrong contractor for a project, and it is very sad to hear. Too many well-meaning homeowners hire start-up companies or unqualified individuals, friends or relatives who need a job and erroneously think they can handle the project. The homeowner thinks it’s a win-win – you help them out, they help you out and you save yourself money. Unfortunately, using an inexperienced person can prove costly in more ways than one – the extra time it takes as well as the money often required to fix things that weren’t done correctly the first time.”
Click here to read the complete article, including 10 Signs You May Be Hiring the Wrong Contractor.
As you wonder where to begin the process, there are some tried and true guidelines that will assist you in making the right choice.
- Recommendations & References: When asking to speak to previous clients, it is important to speak to both new/recent customers as well as repeat clients in order to assess a contractor’s reputation over time and his most current work.
- Licensing and Insurance: Don’t just ask — make sure you see the paperwork and receive copies.
- Website: A contractor’s website should give you a good idea of his style and approach. You should be able to read client testimonials, view a photo gallery and see the types of services he or his firm offers. Be on the lookout for praise related to timeline, budgeting and customer service as well as service-related industry awards.
- Tour previous work: The opportunity to see past projects done by your potential contractor up close and personal is invaluable.
- Paperwork: Discuss and agree upon a timeline, budget and payment schedule before any work begins. Have these agreements in written/contract form with both your signature and that of your contractor.
- Communication: Keep talking! If you don’t understand something, ask. If you have a concern about an aspect of the project, speak with your contractor openly and honestly. Check in on the status of the project early and often to avoid mistakes, confusion and unpleasant surprises along the way.
At CB Construction, we appreciate the time and resources that clients invest in their homes and in their relationship with us. We want you to take the time to research your options carefully in order to establish a relationship built on trust and outstanding customer service. We love to bring our clients’ building projects to life, and we are excited to begin the collaborative process with you. Call us today at 214.773.5566. We look forward to hearing from you!
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call or email me.
5711 Mercedes Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75206
214.773.5566
www.chrisblackconstruction.com