Expert advice
Choosing a reputable remodeler
Taking the time to locate and qualify a professional remodeling contractor will help to ensure the overall success of your remodeling project. Ultimately there are many factors that go into the decision about which remodeling contractor to use. Trade association membership is just one thing to consider. Here are some additional tips to consider in selecting a professional and reliable remodeling contractor:
Employ a contractor with an established business in your area. Local firms can be checked through references from past customers in your community. Local remodelers are compelled to perform satisfactory work for their business to survive.
Seek referrals from people in your community. Be sure to ask several people about the same contractor. This is your opportunity to confirm that the contractor who will be working on perhaps your largest investment has the qualifications you desire. Your goal should be to pre-qualify one or two contractors to work with, before you even consider asking them for a proposal to complete your project.
Massachusetts has both the Home Improvement Contractor Registration system and the Construction Supervisors License. All contractors must be registered with the state and able to provide that number to you. Many should also have employees who are licensed with the state. Refer to the website www.mass.gov/bbrs for further information.
Check with the state Consumer Affairs Office and the Better Business Bureau to ensure there is no adverse file on record for the contractor.
Ask to see a copy of the contractor’s certification of insurance or for the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage. Massachusetts has a strict requirement for contractors to carry worker’s compensation and liability insurance.
If you solicit bids from several different contractors, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that is substantially lower than the others.
A well-written contract is also essential, and the contractor you ultimately choose should be prepared to provide you with one, as required by Massachusetts law (for jobs over $1,000).
10 Questions
You should create a list of the qualifications you will require of their contractor. This way you will be sure to ask the same questions and all questions of each contractor. This list should contain at least the following 10 questions:
1. Do you have worker’s compensation and liability insurance?
2. Do you have a Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License?
3. Are you a registered Home Improvement Contractor?
4. Do you or your employees
have any industry-related
certification?
5. Will you provide me with a detailed, written proposal?
6. How long have you been in business?
7. Can you provide me with a list
of references?
8. Do you belong to any professional trade organizations?
9. What type of warranty do
you offer?
10. Will we need a permit for
this project?
Source: Eastern Massachusetts chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry
For a complete list of verified contractors, see our Verified Directory.
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