Asking The Right Questions Upfront

Client's Three Biggest Fears

1. Will they do the job I want them to do?

2. Will they do the job at a fair price?

3. Will they do the job in a timely manner?

When interviewing a contractor, ask:

Does the contractor...

• Offer at least a 3 year written warranty?
• Respond to warranty calls immediately? What is the process for doing so?
• Have a guaranteed price using a fixed-amount contract. Is this a 1-2 page agreement or a thorough detailed contract covering what is included, and more importantly, what is NOT included in the project?
• Provide an upfront production schedule at contract signing so that you know what will happen each day throughout the duration of your project?
• Use Jobsite Conduct Agreements to guarantee the performance of employees and trade contractors that are used?
• Institute a Pre-Contract Meeting for each project to ensure that everyone that is involved in the production phase of the project is familiar with the details, consequently eliminating "surprises" and possible change orders?
• Have a list of outstanding references that you may contact on your own?
• Acquire permits and use licensed trade and mechanical contractors (e.g. Plumber, electrician)
• Have a license and certified staff for performing RRP Lead renovation required by the EPA on all homes 1978 and older?
• Practice clear communication in a timely manner consistent with today's technology?
• Belong to a consumer-driven referral publication like Angie's List?
• Have a license and bond as required in your city?
• Have written testimonials from past clients?
• Show clear and well-done photos of past projects?
• Possess at least 1 million dollars in liability insurance coverage and require that all trade contractors possess the same, in addition to their own workman's compensation?
• Offer unique and attractive designs?
• Have a clean reputation on the internet? (i.e. Google the company name)
• Detailed systems/processes to carry you through the sales-to-design-to-production phases of a project?
• Have an idea of how long the project will take to complete, and also how long the design and planning phases will take?
• Have membership in a trade organization such as NARI, NAHB, or NKBA or a local Chamber of Commerce?
• Have a bid that is extremely low? Why?
• Seem trustworthy and reliable? Does he or she put you at ease?
• Communicate well with you, including listening?
• Have a plan for how he or she will respect your home and your family?
  

Trust your instincts!

Most importantly, you have to feel that the contractor is right for you. You have to determine if the contractor will meet your expectations. If you get a bad feeling, invest the time needed to make sure they are the contractor for you.