The selection of experienced, capable contractors is critical to the success of any project around your home. In order to receive the best value for your dollar, and ensure you receive quality craftsmanship, here are a few simple tips from Team Plumbing to take into consideration when choosing a contractor to work on your home.
By following these simple guidelines, you should be able to easily find and hire a qualified contractor to work on your home.
- Start with your local Better Business Bureau (BBB). Instead of playing duck, duck, goose, from a Google search, check in with the BBB and see what they and others are saying about local contractors in your area.
- Make sure they are licensed and insured. Contact the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department or visit their website to verify a contractor is licensed in El Paso County. If you are outside El Paso County, be sure to check with your local Regional Building Department. Contractors should certify that their work conforms to all state and local regulations and codes.
- Ask for a cost-estimate in writing for any large jobs. When shopping around for a contractor, it is always wise to request bids from three different companies. For smaller jobs, a couple quick phone calls to two or three different companies should provide you with a rough, yet accurate estimate for the work you need completed.
- Ask for references or testimonials. Most companies keep a small selection of testimonials on their website or in print from satisfied customers. Companies don’t typically provide references for you to call unless you are looking to have a larger job completed.
- Don’t let price be your guide. Throw out any lowball bids you may receive. A contractor who provides a price far below the others is most likely cutting corners, or worse, desperate for work. Beyond technical ability, comfort should play a role in your decision making process. Your ability to communicate and trust a contractor is an important factor. All things being equal, it is better to spend a few more dollars and get somebody you are comfortable with and trust with your home.
- Set a payment agreement. For smaller jobs, Cash On Delivery or C.O.D., as it is commonly referred to is the most universal payment agreement for small to medium tasks performed on your house by a contractor. For larger jobs, payment schedules depend on the type of contractor performing work. Plumbers often use a 15% - 50% - 35% split or a 80% - 20% split for payment.
By following these simple guidelines, you should be able to easily find and hire a qualified contractor to work on your home.
