By Jamie Spence | Contributor
Kathleen and Ted* decided to employ a contractor they discovered through Facebook for some renovations in their home. After noticing favorable comments, viewing past project photos, and recognizing some mutual acquaintances, they felt reassured enough to enter into a contract and pay a 50% deposit. Fast forward two months, and only half of the work had been completed, with the contractor absent and their deposit gone. Their attorney informed them that pursuing legal action would cost more than the loss itself, leading them to abandon the case and look for another contractor. With a limited budget, they had to significantly reduce their renovation plans.
Such experiences are far from rare. In Texas, unlike many other states, there is no requirement to pass an exam or register to become a general contractor. Previously, home improvement contractors had to register with the state, but this mandate has been eliminated. Consequently, anyone can create a social media presence or slap a sign on their vehicle and start their contracting business. These so-called “Chuck in a truck” individuals can vary widely in quality: while some deliver excellent workmanship, others may provide poor results or vanish entirely with your funds.
What can you do to prevent this from happening to you? Here are five important factors to consider when hiring a home remodeling contractor:
1. Determine their business longevity.
Seek out contractors with a proven track record to verify their reliability. Do they employ long-term staff or rely on temporary laborers? Can they offer references from past clients? Is there a professional website? What do online reviews say? While giving a new contractor a chance may seem appealing, it’s generally wiser to choose one with a significant amount of experience unless you know them well and can vouch for their capabilities. The definition of “a significant amount” varies, but make sure to obtain a list of references to confirm the quality of their previous work.
2. Inquire about their quality standards.
Professionals distinguish themselves by maintaining high standards for their work. Experienced contractors should be able to articulate their quality control measures. If a contractor appears puzzled when you inquire about their standards, it might be best to continue your search.
3. Discuss project timelines.
During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, delays in materials and supplies are commonplace. Items that typically arrive in a few days might take weeks now. Nevertheless, you don’t want your project to be indefinitely stalled. It’s essential to understand the expected timeline for your project, and you might want to include a timeline contingency in your contract.
4. Verify their insurance coverage.
Always opt for a contractor who has insurance to cover their employees.
5. Understand your responsibilities and preparations before the project begins.
Clarify what you should take care of prior to project commencement. Specific home remodeling tasks may need to follow a certain sequence, while others can be more flexible. Although some modifications can be performed out of order, it may increase your costs. You may be required to take care of certain responsibilities or preparations before the work starts, while in some instances, you may have minimal involvement. Lori Yeary, co-owner of Liberty Glass & Mirror, assures clients that they can relax, trusting her company to surpass their expectations.
Ultimately, regardless of your project type, partnering with a trustworthy contractor is paramount. This individual or their team will be present in your home for an extended period, and the quality of their work will impact your living space for years to come. Therefore, investing time to find a contractor known for their expertise, experience, and meticulous approach is crucial to ensure your project is executed flawlessly.
*names changed for privacy
Photo credit: Liberty Glass and Mirror
