Undertaking a home renovation project can elicit a mix of excitement and apprehension. It’s common for homeowners to make significant mistakes that can lead to costly consequences, like hiring the wrong contractor or completing the project without a permit.
A general construction contractor oversees the day-to-day tasks that move a remodel or new home construction toward completion. They are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and scheduling inspections.
Reputation
Reputation is an essential factor for both individuals and companies. Businesses with good reputations are likely to make more money than those with a bad reputations. While this may be true to some extent, other factors can influence how much a company makes, such as the quality of its products or services.
When hiring a Seattle remodeling company, looking for one with a good reputation is essential. It can be done by calling references, reading reviews, and visiting completed projects. It’s also vital to get multiple bids from different contractors. Comparing apples to apples can assist you in finding the best deal.
Visiting the contractor’s office and meeting their staff is also a good idea. It will give you a better idea of the company’s culture and how they manage their projects. It’s also a good idea to ask about licensing and insurance. It will let you know they’re a reputable company with the qualifications to complete your project.
If you’re planning on selling your home in the future, be sure to pull the required permits for any remodeling work that needs to be done. Unpermitted work is a major red flag to appraisers and can cause problems when selling your house. You may even be forced to repay the mortgage loan if the lender finds out about the work done without a permit.
It’s also important to remember that not all remodeling projects will increase your home’s value. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine, the average remodel only recoups about two-thirds of its costs in higher home values.
Experience
Whether you’re remodeling your home to accommodate significant changes in your family or to make it feel more comfortable and stylish, you want an experienced contractor. But finding a professional who has the skills and know-how to complete your project on time and within your budget can be challenging.
A reputable remodeling company has a track record of success. It will provide a list of previous clients and photos of completed projects. It will help you determine if the company has what it takes to do the job correctly.
When interviewing prospective contractors, ask them about their experience with similar projects. Also, please find out how long they’ve been in business. An established business will have the resources to handle your remodel and may offer a better warranty than a newer company.
It would be best to ask a potential remodeling contractor how they handle any issues during the project. For example, how do they take change orders and cost disputes? Also, check the contract with your potential remodeler for details about payment schedules and any other vital aspects of your project.
When looking for a remodeling company, consider a design-build firm that offers a full range of services, including kitchen and bathroom renovations, whole house additions, basements, and ADUs.
Insurance
Whether hiring your contractor to complete the entire remodel or a portion of it, be sure they have proper insurance coverage. To ensure their legitimacy, it’s recommended that you reach out to the appropriate local or state licensing agencies to confirm their licenses and insurance status.
It is also essential to ask what type of coverage they have for property damage and worker’s compensation. It is because remodeling contractors can have many different exposures and often have many employees, which can dramatically raise the cost of workers’ compensation insurance.
A reputable company will gladly provide this information and even show you copies of their insurance. In addition, they will clarify their responsibilities in case of an accident during the remodel, including how they will protect your personal belongings. They may be responsible for tarping up your furniture, for example, and will make sure all crew members follow safety protocols.
Finally, it is always a good idea to ask the contractor for a timeline of when the work will start and be completed. It will help you plan accordingly and make arrangements for your family while the job is done. Rest assured that a dependable home remodeler will always prioritize your schedule and make the necessary adjustments to meet your needs. It will make the whole experience as stress-free and pleasant as possible.
References
If a remodeler can’t provide you with reliable references, it’s best not to hire them. You can learn much about a company by examining its work, talking to previous clients, and visiting job sites.
Request a list of references from former employers, then call them. Be sure to inquire about the quality of the craft, whether the project was completed on time and within budget, and any problems that arose during the job.
Visiting a remodeling company’s website and reading customer reviews and testimonials is a great way to gain valuable insight into their services and reputation. It’s also a good idea to interview multiple contractors before making a final decision. It will allow you to compare bids and get a feel for each remodeler’s personality and work ethic.
While hiring the first contractor you meet may be tempting, be wary of anyone who makes you uncomfortable or tries to pressure you into signing a contract. Reputable professionals can answer your questions, provide references and a written agreement, and explain any changes that might occur during the project.
In addition, if a remodeler has been in business for only a few years, it’s a good idea to find out how many employees they have and their job duties. A one-person company isn’t likely the right choice for a significant home renovation, and it can be challenging to determine how well they’ll work with subcontractors. It’s best to choose a firm with a steady staff of experienced, dedicated employees. It will guarantee that your project receives the respect and care it needs.
Budget
If you’re planning a large project, ask the contractor to give you a budget and schedule for the work. It is one of the best ways to get a feel for their approach and see how well they can keep on track. It also allows you to discuss any concerns about cost and ensure you are comfortable with the entire remodeling process.
However, it’s important to remember that even the best remodelers can only foresee some of the potential problems and costs that may arise. For example, a remodel that involves moving pipes, adding new electrical outlets and fixtures, or rewiring the house can be unexpectedly costly.
Talking to several home-remodeling contractors about their pricing and project quotes is a good idea. This information can help you set a realistic remodeling budget and determine the best company for your project.
For example, if you’re looking to remodel your kitchen and are considering quartz countertops, hardwoods, or high-end cabinets, be prepared for a project that will likely cost more than $175,000. In addition, keep in mind that Seattle is a costly market to live in.
