Top Five Consumer Mistakes In Hiring a Remodeler

Here are the top five mistakes made in a construction project:

1, Not checking the contractor’s license.
A license is required in the City of San Antonio many of the small towns around, and in many states. All or most construction business that advertises, offers, bids, arranges for, or performs any construction, alteration, home improvement, remodeling or repair work must be licensed.

2. No written contract.
A written contract protects you and the contractor. Sorry, but the days of a handshake for the most part are gone. All construction agreements should be committed to a written contract. The State of Texas recommends that all agreements, including all changes to the contract, be in writing.

3. Not getting more than one bid/Automatically accepting the lowest bid.
Getting more than one bid can help you "get a feel" for what your project should cost. The old saying “you get what you pay for “generally applies here. A higher bid may be worth the price in better materials, workmanship and reliability. Most of all: for those that feel that they will only hire the person that is in the middle price. Here is a Warning for you: you are set to hire only base on price and everything else will be obscure.

4. Not checking references.
Check with previous customers. Call them, talk to them and/or pay an onsite visit. Why? Anybody can write on the internet, the internet it helps spread false information with a push of a key. What you may ask: Were they satisfied with the work? Was the work finished within a reasonable time frame? Did the contractor return phone calls? If the person had problems with the contractor, ask how the contractor responded to complaints. Look at examples of the contractor’s work.

5. Not doing the homework.

I. Plan your project carefully. Consider your budget. Find pictures of styles and products you like.

II. Write down brand names and models. Show them to your contractor. “High quality faucets” or “ivory paint” may mean something different to you and your contractor.

III. Walk with your contractor through a finished project and explain what you like and don’t like.

IV. Get accurate plans or blueprints and make sure they show your project accurately.