Are you about to start a kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, garage conversion or other home improvement project? One of the most important decisions throughout such a process is hiring the right remodeling company for your renovation project. The easy steps below make finding the best construction company easier. Following these steps can also make a significant difference in the project’s outcome and how it impacts your finances.
Ask People You Trust for Referrals
Perhaps the best way to find the right remodeling company is to ask for word-of-mouth referrals. Ask people like your neighbors, friends, work associates or local service providers for remodeling contractors they have used. You can even ask people like your banker, real estate agent or hardware store manager whom they recommend. Also, inquire about what made their recommended contractor so great and whether they would work with them again.
Review Their Credentials
To avoid major problems as part of your remodeling project, always ensure your contractor is fully licensed under the state and your local municipality. They should also hold designations from some of the following professional associations:
- National Kitchen and Bath Association
- National Association of Homebuilders
- National Association of the Remodeling Industry
Remember that some certifications are mere fluff, while others mean the contractor lives up to high industry standards.
Interview the Prospects
After talking to several remodeling companies, set up appointments with the ones you feel most confident about. Three is typically the ideal number of contractors to screen in person for a project. When meeting with these individuals, pay attention to how they answer your questions. Ask your top candidates about their most recent projects.
Ask them questions like:
- What is their permanent mailing address, phone number, email address, cell phone number and website?
- What liability insurances do they carry? Ask them for a copy of their insurance certificates.
- How long have they been in business locally under their current remodeling company name?
- Do they maintain longstanding relationships with specific plumbers, electricians and other service providers they will use on your project?
- What professional designations do they hold?
- What trade organizations or associations are they affiliated with and how long have they been a member?
Check References
After checking out some of the most recent projects of each remodeling company, request references from the ones you feel most comfortable with for your project. Actually make the reference calls to former customers and ask how the contractors performed.
Was the remodeling process smooth? Was the project completed on time and according to the original budget? How do the customers feel about the results? Did the contractor lack quality in any areas or was there anything that could have been done better?
Review the Contract and Quote
When you have chosen your ideal remodeling company, ask for a quote and written service agreement. Thoroughly review these documents and ensure they look professional, balanced and fair. The contract should include:
- Price quote
- Payment schedule
- Detailed scope of work
- Site plan
- Schedule of primary tasks
- Change-order clause
- Procedural list for closeout
- Warranty
- Dispute resolution clause
- Waiver of lien – ensuring subcontractors and suppliers cannot force a lien on your home, should the contractor not pay their invoices
Make Your Informed Choice for the Best Remodeling Company
After going through these steps, you can rest easy at night knowing that you have found your ideal remodeling company. Always remember that they are a service provider to you and also that communication is a two-way street.
In the Los Angeles area, include Coronado Construction Company on your remodeling company shortlist. Just as we did with our long list of highly satisfied customers, we are eager to build trust with you and help you achieve your remodeling project dreams! For your home renovation or remodeling project in Los Angeles, Pasadena, South Pasadena, Silver Lake, Eagle Rock or San Marino, California, call Coronado Construction Company today at (323) 363-1794.