Eastern Madera County, Ca. area

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12 Tips for hiring and working with a Contractor
 

Need a Contractor?  Need to build a deck, porch,
 gazebo or a patio?  So You need to hire a contractor, right?  Then read on as to how to go about hiring a licensed contractor and a good  tradesmen?

Now you need help, so here are 12 tips leading up to hiring  and working with a good Licensed Contractor for your project:

1.  Find a good reputable contractor:  Start by obtaining a  prospective  list of contractors by word of mouth ( that's where I come in) ,  your local building material yards or the local hardware store for a dependable contractor.   Ask your neighbors who had the work done by a Licensed Contractor , were they  happy with the contractor and the finished job?  Would they now recommend the Contractor to you?

2. Before starting the actual labor and project, if its a large project, plan your project.   Draw  up your own  site plan or sketch if needed.  For example if it is a major project such as building a deck, sketch out a  site plan  that would  include the distances from the project to the house  and or other landmarks in the yard.  Put this all down on paper, so nothing is left to chance.  This also avoids mistakes,  misunderstanding, etc.  

3.Before hiring your contractor it's a good idea to do  a search on the internet on  the contractor License board in your state. Follow the instructions on the site that will enable you  to make sure your contractor is actually an  active licensed contractor.

4. Upon having a few good lead for reputable contractors, it's best to get at the very least three written bids for the project.  Don't  be tempted to sign a contract with the lowest bid. Low bids may mean that the Contractor will be using  cheaper materials, etc. It also may mean He missed something in his bid or wasn't included.  So be cautious, Let's not make this into a stressful project.  In contrast, a  higher bid may be worth the price.  You should get higher  workmanship, better materials, and a contractor you can trust.  Include a job completion date too.

5.  Also  find a contractor you are comfortable with and can communicate with freely.  One who is not evasive.  Make sure to your satisfaction this contractor knows his business.

6. Be sure to  ask  for references.  Be sure to call these references, to check out the contractor. If possible go and  look at his  completed projects  and ask  the previous customer if they were satisfied with the quality of work done and the demeanor of the contractor.  Take note when the project was started  and completed to schedule.

7.Be sure you get a signed, written contract with his license number on.  Never be afraid to ask question if you don't understand everything on that contract .  After all it's your money and you worked hard for it.

• A good contract should include:

• Name and address of contractor and phone number

• License number of the contractor .

• Detailed description of your project.

• Start date  and  completion date.

• Find out what materials that will be used, have them listed.

• Warranties, what is covered and not covered.

• Agree on who will be responsible for permits and inspections if needed.

• Have it in writing that the  contractor will be the one who cleans  up after the project is finished.

• Get proof of liability and workmen comp coverage.

• The total price and payment schedule.  Define in clear terms each installment .

• Do not pay more than 15% of the project as a down payment.

• Best  not to  pay cash.  Use a check, this will also be a way of proving your payments in case of  misunderstandings.

8.Make any changes to the project in writing with a "work order change" to avoid misunderstandings and surprises.

9. ensure the safety of the work site from your perspective, by keeping  pets and children away from the construction site. This too will help keep the project on schedule.

10.Inspect the work regularly.

11.Pay directly and promptly according to the contract.

12. When your project is finally completed to satisfaction.  Find yourself a comfortable chair and a refreshing drink and begin to enjoy your new project.

Yes all this may take time but well worth it.  Enjoy your new addition or project!

 

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