When it comes to your next home remodeling project, choosing the right contractor can make all the difference. Not sure where to start? Read below to find out all you need to know about choosing a contractor.
Do you feel like your home is a constant work in progress? You’re not alone. From a fresh coat of paint to a full kitchen remodel, millions of homeowners will embark on home improvement projects in the year ahead. With a seemingly endless to-do list, what often keeps homeowners from completing their home improvement projects is not knowing when or how to hire professional help.
Use these guidelines to help you decide if you need a contractor and choose a quality professional for your next home remodeling project.
Where Do I Start?
The best place to begin is by clearly defining your project. Decide what you want to achieve, research your ideas, and collect inspiration to focus your plan. Once you settle on the full scope, you can better decide what kind of help you will need.
Handyman Vs. Contractor
A handyman is typically skilled in general home repair and maintenance. They are helpful for smaller, short-term projects such as painting, minor repairs, and appliance installation. A contractor is more suitable for large-scale projects that will require a variety of skills, specialty tasks, and multiple subcontractors.
A good rule of thumb to follow is if your project will take multiple weeks to complete, requires permits, and needs several trades, you should hire a contractor.
What Does a Contractor Do?
A contractor, often referred to as a general contractor, manages your home remodeling project from design to construction completion. While some may self-perform a portion of the work, most will enlist a team of other professionals ranging from electricians and plumbers to painters and flooring specialists. It is their responsibility to hire and oversee the necessary trades for your project. You will still be fully involved in defining the project’s scope and design, but the contractor is responsible for the overall execution.
Why Should I Hire a Contractor?
The simple answer is because they are experts at managing and executing home remodeling projects. They have the necessary tools and skills to ensure your project is a success from start to finish. They also know the permits, codes, and other regulations your project will need to meet and have the ability to manage the subcontractors required to complete your project. By hiring a contractor, you won’t have to waste time and money trying to navigate these elements on your own.
How Do I Find a Reliable Local Contractor?
When searching for your next home remodeling contractor, consider the following tips to ensure they are reliable and qualified.
- Ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
- Check with your local chamber of commerce or trade associations for referrals.
- Research online and read reviews.
- Interview multiple options and ask the same questions for easy comparison.
- Get an itemized bid for your project, and don’t just settle for the lowest bidder.
- Ask for their licenses and certificates of insurance, and verify this information. In Virginia, you can verify their license information through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. For certificates of insurance, look to see if their policy is current and if it includes workers’ compensation and general liability coverage.
- Ask for recent references on similar projects and contact them.
Are You Ready to Choose a Contractor?
Hiring the right contractor might seem overwhelming, but it’s worth the extra time and effort. If you are ready to find a professional home remodeler, consider Criner Remodeling. We have proudly served Yorktown, York County, Hampton, and Newport News for the last 44 years and assure you we will not only met but exceed your expectations. Contact us today to find out more.