Before you Hire a Basement Remodel Contractor: Ask these Questions.
You’ve decided to remodel your basement, down to the new flooring and paint job. So you start contacting contractors in your area, but what should you be asking? It would help to ask these questions before giving a basement contractor leesburg the green light.
How much do you charge for your services?
Be very specific about what you are asking. For example, ask about the cost of labor and materials, as well as fees for project management. In addition, make sure you ask about the exact amount of time it will take to complete the project, including the time needed for installation, clean-up, etc.
Have you done this type of work before?
This is a must. If the contractor has never remodeled a basement, they may not be equipped to do so correctly. A company specializing in this type of project will have a broader knowledge of the various processes and know-how to do them more efficiently.
What kind of warranty do you give?
This is a massive issue for many homeowners. While your contractor is not required to offer a warranty, it can be highly beneficial to you. The security will protect your investment against unforeseen problems if something goes wrong during the project. Also, if you have any concerns or questions in the future, they can be resolved with a quick phone call.
Do you have liability insurance?
Contractors must carry particular insurance to protect themselves and their clients. If they do not, they could face serious legal trouble if someone is injured in their work area or other problems occur. Therefore, it is also wise to ask how much coverage the contractor has before signing a contract.
Do you guarantee your work?
A contractor who delivers poor results should stand behind the quality of their work. All contractors can offer some guarantee, and it may be beneficial to ask if they do so to protect yourself in any way possible.
What project management process will you use?
Many people have a difficult time managing multiple projects at once, especially when they are big ones. Your contractor should have a system to track their various projects and stay on task. They should also be able to explain the process and how you can work with them to make sure that your project stays on track.
How much time do you need to complete the contract?
Some contractors will provide a specific amount of time, while others will say that they cannot give an exact concrete date as it depends on weather and other factors. Either method can be acceptable, but you should know your options before deciding.
What is your payment policy?
This is another crucial question to ask when hiring a contractor. Do they work with clients who like to pay as they go and those who operate on large lump sum payments? If you are planning on paying in installments, then it is essential to ask about the methods of payment accepted by the company, including credit cards and so on.
What is your availability?
If you are trying to find a company that can complete the project promptly, you need to know if they have the necessary time. This question will also determine if they have enough workers on staff to complete the task promptly.
Can you provide a list of references?
Asking for references is another must determine the quality of the company. You want to find out how happy past clients were with the work done by your contractor, as well as how long it took to complete their project. Also, ask how long they have been working with that particular company and if they were satisfied with their customer service.
Finding a contractor can be difficult, but it can be easier with the right questions than you think.