Interviewing general contractors for your home addition or other renovation project can be a long and stressful process. We all know to check a company’s licensing and insurance, but what else makes a great general contractor? Here are some things to look when interviewing for your home addition or remodeling project.
Presentation
When general contractors come to your home, consider all aspects of their presentation. This includes everything from how they are dressed to how they communicate their message, and the materials and information they offer to leave with you or send to you in the upcoming days. Their proposal should include a post-project follow-up process to ensure that all promised parts of the project are completed.
Listening Skills
Good communication skills are worth paying for. If the prospective contractor doesn’t actively listen to your thoughts, desires and ideas about your home addition or remodel, you should quickly eliminate that company. However, this doesn’t mean they must nod their head in agreement to every idea you have. They may offer alternative suggestions due to structural or financial constraints.
Experience and Reputation
General contractors have different specialties. You want to hire a general contractor who has experience performing the type of work you’re in need of. Ask to see photos of completed projects and learn about their overall experience. Great general contractors will be able to provide you with references and have a good online reputation.
Some basic things to look for include the contractor having an actuall place of business, a showroom or some sort of legitamate commercial office space and facilities, a good rating with the Better Business Bureau, GuildQuality, Houzz and Google, and properly marked and maintained vehicles.
Hiring the right general contractor for your home addition or remodeling project will have a tremendous impact on the success of your project. From the initial meeting to the time you sign the contract, make sure every question and concern is addressed.
When you are looking at professional general contractors, be sure to include G.M. Roth Design Remodeling among those you interview. From our initial meeting, you’ll find that we will listen to what you want, provide clear proposals and references, and offer experience that is second to none. Call to schedule your no-obligation consultation today at (603) 880-3761.
