The following simple steps for choosing a home renovation contractor can make the difference between a job well done and many a sleepless night.

Get Referrals

There’s no doubt that the best way to find someone who is thoroughly capable of tackling the job is through word of mouth. Talk with relatives, with friends, and with neighbors. Ask if anyone has used a renovation contractor recently and if they would use the same company again.

Check Credentials

You have a few recommendations, so now it’s time for some early research. You can do this on a contractor’s website or over the phone. Find out if they have local municipality and state licenses, together with any professional association designations from foundations such as theNational Association of Remodeling or National Kitchen & Bath Association.

Interview Candidates

Set up a meeting with the selected contractors – preferably three. You should have your questions ready, but a good contractor will always ask about the work so ought to be a two-way process.

When interviewing a contractor, here are a few questions you’ll likely wish to ask:

Does the contractor:

-          Have a permanent mailing address, personal phone number, e-mail address, and cell phone?

-          Have insurance that will protect you from any liability? Get a copy just to be sure.

-          Have a recognized presence within the community? Has the company been in business for long? Does the contractor have good relationships with fellow contractors – electricians and plumbers, for example?

-          Have a trustworthy reputation? Do they have a valid track record of success?

-          Do they have any professional designations – Certified Bath Designer (CBD), Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), et cetera?

Check References

If you can, have a look at some of the projects that your selected contractors have completed. Get in touch with previous customers and ask about the contractor – were they on budget? Did they finish on time? Could anything have been better?

Get It in Writing

Once you’ve selected a contractor, have a look through the prepared documents. Are they professional? Does the contract seem balanced and accurate? The legal agreement should include:

-          The bid price in addition to the payment schedule

-          The scope of work specifics

-          A plan of the site

-          Primary construction tasks in the form of a sequential schedule

-          Change-order clause

-          Express limited warranty

-          Written procedural list which applies to close-out

-          Clause for resolution of any disputes

-          Waiver of lien (this will prevent both suppliers and subcontractors from placing a lien on the home given that their invoices have not been paid by the contractor)