Hiring a contractor can be stressful, especially if you’re planning a major renovation. This is not something you want to do blindly. Read our top five tips to help you hire the right person for your next home project. These tips also apply if you’re hiring a tradesperson or service professional to tackle any project around the home.

1. Get referrals.

Ask your family, friends and neighbors for the names of contractors or trades professionals they’ve used and make a list of companies that serve your area. We work with reputable contractors and other professionals in our local area and our preferred partners are listed here. We also have recommended vendors for nearly every household need. We have tried and tested a vast variety of companies from carpet cleaners to landscapers. Give us a call and we’ll get you in touch with the best of the best in the area!

2. Read Reviews.

Most professional companies have reviews or testimonials listed on their web sites, Google, Angie’s List or on Yelp.com, depending on the type of service provider you’re thinking to hire. In some cases, either because a company is too new to have reviews or if the business is a one-man show, it will be more difficult to dig up testimonials. In either case, take some time to read what the company’s clients and customers are saying about them. Try to aim for companies that have a 4-star or better rating.

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3. Research your options.

Contact your local Better Business Bureau and your state’s consumer protection agency to review the reputation of the companies on your list. Check online consumer review sites. If possible, call previous clients and ask specific questions pertaining to their experience working with the company. Schedule times with the companies to see completed projects so you can get an idea of the level of quality to expect. Also, verify that all companies under consideration are licensed and check for any past judgments against them from prior jobs. In most states, all major remodeling projects must be done by a licensed contractor. Be aware that if you use an unlicensed contractor, you may be responsible for any work that is not to code or injuries your worker incurs on the job.

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4. Get in touch.

Once you have a list of companies, call them and ask if they specialize in your type of project. If you’re renovating the kitchen, you’ll want a company that has completed several similar kitchen renovations; they’ll know the applicable regulations and codes that pertain to your project. Ask how many other projects they’re managing at the moment as this may impact when they can begin working on your renovation. This is also the time to give you an estimate with a break down of the costs involved, including materials, labor and expenses.

5. Meet the contractors in person. 

Meeting face-to-face not only allows you to ask more questions, it also provides insight into the contractor’s communication style. It can also provide insight into their character and attention to detail in the way they present themselves and their company. Since you’ll be working closely with the contractor and team, you’ll want to make sure you trust them.

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