When you choose to remodel your home, it’s crucial that you hire the right contractor for the job. You can get referrals from friends, family, or your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network professional. But there are other ways to get information so you can make the right choice.
It’s a good idea to interview at least three contractors, including your referrals. Depending on your state’s licensing rules, you should know the rules and regulations for licensing professionals. The purpose of licensing is to ensure that “the contractor meets the city's, town's, or state's requirements for working on residential and commercial construction projects.” Not all states require contractors to be licensed, and some focus only on specialties such as plumbing, electrical and HVAC, which makes it harder to ascertain a contractor’s expertise.
Angi.com offers a convenient state-by-state list of contractor license requirements and a license check tool with “links to the regulatory agencies’ real-time license verification websites” so you can confirm the contractor’s status before you hire. Some states also provide certifications that show the contractor has completed educational and work requirements for their specialties. Some regulators require contractors to carry general contractor insurance, provide references, financial statements, and proof of registration.
Ask for references and to see a portfolio of completed jobs. The contractor should agree to provide a written, detailed contract outlining the work to be done, the costs for each step, quality of materials to be used, completion dates, payment and inspection schedules, warranties, and means of communicating.
