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How to Select a Remodeling Contractor

You are getting ready to enter into a relationship, and the right contractor for your 
project is extremely important. This individual or company is going to work in and 
on your home on a daily basis. You need to find a company with credibility and 
credentials and also learn about the people who run it. The trust factor is the single 
key for most people when they hire a company.

Does the company have the ability to handle the project from a construction stand 
point? Do they have the personnel to help you through the project emotionally? Remodeling can be very stressful: workers are in your home everyday, there is dust everywhere, and your normal everyday life has been temporarily interrupted. Will the contractor be there with you for the ups and downs of your project? Is he/she the type of person you would like to work with, and will he/she be careful with your possessions?

Following is a list of questions you should ask to help determine the company's 
ability, the trust factor, and how comfortable you would feel working with this 
contractor. PRICE IS NOT AN ISSUE AT THIS POINT!

bulletHow long has your company been in business? Look for a company that has 
been in business for more than one year.
bulletDo you have references? You are looking for recent projects (over the past 
2 or 3 years).
bulletWho will oversee the project? Are you talking to the salesperson or the 
contractor him/herself? If there is a project manager, can you meet and 
talk with this individual?
bulletDo you carry liability and accident insurance? All companies, large or small, 
should carry liability insurance. THIS IS A MUST! Larger companies will 
carry at least accident insurance to cover their employees. Do not hire a 
contractor without insurance! You could be liable.
bulletHow many jobs do you have going at one time? Make sure the contractor 
is not overloaded and that he/she will be able to give your project the 
attention it deserves.
bulletDo I need a permit for this project? Most projects require a building permit. 
A qualified contractor will know if you need one and will obtain one before 
work begins. You can check with your local municipality to see if the type of 
project you are doing requires a permit.