To reduce the risk of hiring
the wrong home remodeling contractor you should first do a little preparation
yourself for the home remodeling project. Sketch out and write down what you
want remodeled. Provide a copy of this information to each prospective home
remodeling contractor as this will help to minimize misunderstandings of
requirements.
Visit home improvement centers such as Lowes and Home Depot, and look at
materials expected to be used on your project (e.g. lumber, doors, windows,
appliances, countertops, roofing material, etc.). Make note of their costs so
you will be able to compare material costs proposed by prospective contractors.
While visiting home improvement centers also talk with some of the employees
about costs and lead times for particular products of interest. For example,
there are many types of doors and windows and frequently there can be
significant lead times for deliveries.
When you start calling prospective contracts ask for references and previous
work that you can visit.
Finally, make sure you get multiple quotes and make sure that they are in
writing. Also ask how long the quotation is valid.
