Tips on Selecting Contractors
Tips on how to find a competent, reliable contractor:
Follow these tips to find a competent and reliable contractor for your next home remodeling project.
- You know & trust. Whenever possible, work with a local contractor you know and trust.
- Trusted Referrals. If you don’t know anyone, then seek referrals. Start with your Realtor, friends, or neighbors. (I’d be happy to provide you with a referral - just give me a call).
- Check References. Ask for references and check them. If possible, visit other work sites when repairs are underway.
- Do your research - license & insured. Check with the Department of Labor and Industries. All contractors who do construction work in Washington must be registered with the state, post a bond and carry general liability insurance coverage. Check the L&I Web site at www.contractors.lni.wa.gov or call 1-800-647-0982.
- Do your research - complaints? Find out whether any complaints have been filed against a contractor by calling the local office of the Better Business Bureaus.
- Get 3 bids. Solicit written bids from at least three qualified contractors that detail the scope of the work, the types of materials that will be used, and the total cost of the project. Also make sure the bids are all the same - if needed, provide the contractors with updated information so they can rebid for the exact same work.
- Check warranties - ones that you have. Before you start work, check your warranties. The warranty on your roof, for example, may require you to use a certain repair company.
- Check warranties - ones that you want. Ask the contractor for a written warranty that covers the cost of labor and materials if the repair doesn’t hold up. For example - most roof failures are not due to the materials, they are due to the failure for the materials to be installed properly.
- Get it in writing. The contract should cover the work to be performed, total price including taxes and fees, materials to be used, start and completion dates, warranties, payment schedules, sign-off procedures for changes, and cleanup. If your project costs at least $1,000, the contractor must give you a written disclosure statement that explains your rights and responsibilities.
- Don’t pay twice. If a contractor fails to pay a subcontractor, worker or supplier, you could be sued and have a lien placed on your property to satisfy the unpaid bill. Protect yourself by asking for a lien release for all subcontractors and suppliers.
- Reserve Final Payment. Arrange to pay for the work as late in the process as possible. Never pay any large sums of money in advance and don’t make a final payment until the work is completed to your satisfaction and you know that subcontractor or suppliers have been paid (this is key - always get the lien release before the final payment!)