Tips for Homeowners Hiring a Contractor!

The spring season is the perfect time to inquire about contract work for your home. Many homeowners hire contractors for home improvements during the spring and summer months especially here in Bristol and Warren, Rhode Island. Quality contractors are very important. You want the people who are working on your home to be legitimate and trusted because, after all, it is your home. The quality of the repairs done to your house or property depends on the quality of the contractor doing the work. Concerns about questionable contractors are the number one reason consumers call the Better Business Bureau. Concerned about becoming a victim? Follow the tips below to make sure you have a reliable contractor the next time you hire one for your home improvement project. When hiring a contractor, there are several important factors to consider and research prior to making a decision on who you’ll hire.

The spring season is the perfect time to inquire about contract work for your home. Many homeowners hire contractors for home improvements during the spring and summer months especially here in Bristol and Warren, Rhode Island. Quality contractors are very important. You want the people who are working on your home to be legitimate and trusted because, after all, it is your home. The quality of the repairs done to your house or property depends on the quality of the contractor doing the work. Concerns about questionable contractors are the number one reason consumers call the Better Business Bureau. Concerned about becoming a victim? Follow the tips below to make sure you have a reliable contractor the next time you hire one for your home improvement project. When hiring a contractor, there are several important factors to consider and research prior to making a decision on who you’ll hire.

To search for a contractor in Rhode Island, click here.  For more information, visit crb.ri.gov.

You can also link to the Better Business Bureau and the RI Builders Association.

Below are some tips from Legal Shield on helping to minimize problems when hiring a contractor:

• Check their references
• Get recommendations or referrals from relatives, friends, co-workers
• Visit a current job site and inspect work
• Check with local BBB and inquire about a contractor history report
• Ask for an outline of work, materials, target dates etc.
• Have a written estimate
• Maintain a contract between you and the contractor
• Talk on the phone or in person
• Make a list of questions to ask
• Verify their proof of licensing, bonding, and insurance before the project ever begins.
• Ask for bids from at least three contractors.
• Discuss a payment schedule
• Get everything in writing including start date, cost of materials, labor costs, job expectations, payment schedule, and any other details should be made in writing. Both you and the contractor should have a copy. Don’t work with anyone who isn’t willing to put the details in writing.

A home renovation is stressful enough. Finding the right contractor makes the process much easier and gives you peace of mind. Use these tips when you’re ready to hire your next contractor. It’s also a good idea to keep your insurance agent up to date on your home’s progress – that way you’ll be sure to have the right homeowner’s insurance policy in place when your project is complete.