Checklist for Choosing a Reputable Contractor

Whatever home improvement project you’re planning, it’s a good idea to choose a home improvement company that fits all of your preferences. Whether you’re thinking about replacing your roof or getting new windows, working with a qualified contractor will help you avoid most – if not all – potential problems.

To help you get started, use this checklist to find the contractor that deserves your business.

1. Finding a Reliable Contractor

Compile a list of up to six contractors so you have a solid shortlist of prospects. To start your list, do these:

Ask for referrals from your friends, family and colleagues at work. You can even ask your neighbors.
If there’s a builders’ association in your area, you can ask the organization.
You can also check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Now that you have your list, determine which are the best by:

Checking out their website and determining whether it looks professional.
Reading the reviews from customers.
Reading positive as well as negative reviews. If there are negative reviews, how did the contractor respond? How did they resolve issues, if they did?

2. Vetting Contractors

Now that you’ve got a list of potential contractors, it’s time to give them a call. Ask them a few questions about:

How long they have been in business and what types of projects have they’ve done in the past.
Insurance. They should be insured for property damage, personal liability and worker’s compensation. You don’t want to have a problem if something unexpected happens while they’re working at your home.
Subcontractors.
References from past projects.
Their service regarding permits if your project requires permits.
Payment terms and schedule.
Estimate of the project.
Schedule of the project.

3. Meeting Your Top Prospective Contractors

When you’ve successfully narrowed down your choices, it’s time to meet with your top contractors. Bring your notebook and pen to take notes. Use this notebook for keeping track of your project as well. Ask your contractors a few questions:

Will you pull the permits and purchase the materials?
Is site cleanup and disposal of the old materials part of the estimate?
Before signing a contract, make sure the price is fixed.

Remember to keep a record of all your transactions, particularly anything that has to do with warranties. To make sure you’re dealing with a reputable contractor, do your due diligence.

Up and Above Contractors is a trusted window replacement contractor. We are also a reputable roofing company. Call us today at (973) 300-0636, or fill out this form for your free estimate. We work with homeowners in Sparta, Hackettstown and Wantage, NJ. We also work in the Sussex, Morris and Warren counties, particularly in Andover.

Gary Powers