HOW TO SELECT A REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Selecting the contractor is the single most important decision you will make regarding the success of you project. Whether you are planning a deck, porch or any home remodeling project, Summit Exteriors recommends these 13 check points when considering a potential contractor. Using these checkpoints can help you save time, money, and worry… and get beautiful results.

1. •  IS THE CONTRACTOR WELL ESTABLISHED?
   It is imperative to find out how long the contractor has been in business. Why? Because longevity usually means stability.
2. •  COMMUNICATION IS VITAL
   Do you feel at ease with your contractor for details? It's crucial that you hire someone that you can ask questions. It's equally crucial that your contractor ask you questions, because how else can he/she learn what YOU want in your project, or how you want it to reflect your desires and lifestyle.
3. •  HAS YOUR CONTRACTOR QUOTED YOU AND EXACT PRICE FOR YOUR COMPLETE PROJECT?
   Many contractors will quote you a flat, generic price per square foot for your project without fully reviewing the unique characteristics of your home and building site. In fact, some contractors don't even visit the site, but provide a quote by phone! If the contractor does not attend to detail when quoting your project, then what level of detail can you expect once construction starts?
4. •  MAKE SURE ALL BIDS ARE FOR THE SAME SPECIFICATIONS
   Beware of the contractor who says he will “build it the same way the Summit Exteriors does, but for a lower price.” Detailed drawings, when accompanied by construction specifications, are the best way to ensure consistency between bids. When considering a similar design, a higher price may reflect different and superior materials, workmanship. Business practices and project integrity. A reputable contractor will put everything in writing for you, including warranty information that guarantees their work.
5. •  GET IT IN WRITING
   Contracts and design capabilities can be presented in a variety of ways. Prepare yourself for everything from notes on a business card, to “trust me” verbal agreements based on a handshake. Protect yourself by getting your agreement in a written contract.
6. •  ELIMINATE GUESSWORK AND SURPRISES
   Come to a full understanding. Written contracts can range from a simple estimate to a more thorough agreement. Overlooked details can turn into particular sources of dissatisfaction: Details you should pay attention to include:
   - General Building Specifications: your contractor should provide specifications that detail the types of lumber and materials used in every aspect of the project. Remember, if it is not in writing it is subject to change without your knowledge, or without having legal recourse to settle disputes.
   -Utilities: will the contractor locate to avoid interfering with underground utilities such as telephone lines? Similarly, will the contractor locate and account for obstructions that might effect the cost and process of your work project, such as vents, meters, and gutter downspouts?
   -Clean Up: will you or the contractor remove and dispose of excess lumber, cuttings, dropped hardware and litter? Clean up costs money, time and effort.
7. •  IS YOUR BUILDER APPLYING FOR AND PROVIDING A BUILDING PERMIT?
   If your project requires a building permit, your contractor will often offer to provide this service. This permit protects you by ensuring the the work will be completed in compliance with local and state building codes. A project completed without a permit, when required, could lead to insurance or property transfer problems.
8. •  IS THE CONTRACTOR RESPECTFUL TO YOU AND YOUR HOME?
   As part of the agreement, does your potential contractor ask you for use of your electrical and bathroom facilities once construction does begin? The courtesy shows a level of respect that the contractor has for you and your home.
9. •  DO NOT PAY MORE THAN ½ THE CONTRACT VALUE AS A DEPOSITE, UNTIL THE START OF CONSTRUCTION
   It is quite reasonable for a contractor to ask for and to receive a down payment upon the sale, as well as to schedule future progress payments. Yet, be aware of the many remodeling horror stories involving homeowners who paid a large deposit, but then got little or none of the work performed. A demand for a larger deposit may be an indication that the contractor has been judged a poor credit risk.
10. •  DO NOT PUT YOUR HOME AT RISK
    How will your project be attached to the existing structure? Lack of protection against water, or wrong method of attachment to your home, can result in damage to the framing of the house. Improper attachment may also jeopardize the integrity and strength of your project. Local codes will provide minimum standards that you should expect, but always confirm that flashing is detailed in your contract.
11. •  VARIFY THAT THE CONTRACTOR HAS GENERAL LIABILITY AND WORKER”S COMPENSATION INSURANCE
    Without such coverage, you could be held liable for property damage or injuries that occur on your property. Remember. If the contractor is NOT insured and is hurt on the job, the contractor, or even the government, can sue YOU.
12. •  DO NOT JUST ASK YOUR CONTRACTOR FOR REFERENCES FROM OTHER HOMEOWNERS
    Break references into two categories.
    -Business References, such as local lumber yards, code officials and local wholesalers.
    - A mix of customers from two or more years ago, recently completed projects and customers who are currently under construction.
13. •  IF REQUIRED, IS THE CONTRACTOR LICENSED
    If you reside within a state or municipality that requires a licensing process for contractors, the settle for nothing less. Licensed contractors have demonstated that they meet or exceed the experience, financial integrity and knowledge criteria that are considered a minimum to operate in a competent, professional manner.