Questions to Ask Remodeling Contractors
Are you planning to remodel your Claremont home?
The decision to remodel a home, or even just a kitchen or bathroom, is a big one. Perhaps you are heading into a remodeling project after purchasing an older house in Claremont, or maybe you’ve desired it for a long time but lacked the time or resources to start. Either way, now that you're ready to move ahead with a project, the first thing to do is research and interview contractors. It is important to take your time with this step, even if you feel anxious to start. If you hire an inexperienced or dishonest contractor, the job could end up costing more than you anticipated.
WHAT TO ASK REMODELING CONTRACTORS
1. Ask About Licensing & Insurance
Make sure you are dealing with a professional. A legitimate Claremont remodeling company must have California state licensure and carry an adequate amount of insurance. The person you speak to should be able to provide the business's general contractor number as well as the name of its insurance company. If he or she can't do this, stop the interview and move on to another company.
2. Ask About the Contractor's Experience
You should ask how long the remodeling company has been in business. While newer companies can provide good service, those that have been around for several years have a proven track record.
3. Ask to See Previous Remodeling Work
The remodeling company you choose should be proud of the work it has completed for other clients. If the person you meet with doesn't bring along pictures of completed jobs, you should ask to see some. A quick visit to online construction portfolios can also give you a sense of a contractor's work.
4. Ask for References
You may wish to ask for references from previous customers in the Claremont area. If you do choose to call a reference, it is a good sign when he or she would use the same remodeling company again in the future.
5. Ask About Schedules
Make sure you have a good understanding of expectations. A construction crew will be in your house almost daily, so you should know who is going to work on your kitchen or bathroom and be aware of their typical schedule. Before you sign a contract, make sure that you have a clear idea of how long the project is going to take.
6. Ask for An Estimate
You should also understand how much you are going to pay and under what circumstances the amount might change. Don't be afraid to ask for an estimate. It is generally recommended that you get at least 2-3 bids for comparison. This information is useful when it comes time to compare contractors and decide who to hire. Finally, be certain that you know when you should remit full payment.
Learn more about Lotus Construction Group of Claremont, California.