Four Questions to Ask a Contractor BEFORE They Start Work On Your Home
We've all encountered frustrating experiences with home repair contractors at some point. They might cancel appointments, arrive late, leave a mess behind, or surprise you with unexpected charges. Once they've started the work, you often feel obligated to continue, even if things aren't going smoothly. But there's a simple way to avoid many of these issues: asking a few key questions before hiring them.
- How long have you been in business? Experience matters. The longer a contractor has been in business, the more likely they are to have honed their skills and built a solid reputation. However, make sure to inquire about their experience specifically related to the task at hand.
- How many employees do you have? While company size isn't everything, having dedicated employees for specific tasks can indicate professionalism and the ability to handle larger-scale repairs effectively. For example, when repairing a concrete driveway, it's preferable to hire someone with extensive experience in concrete lifting rather than a generalist.
- Are you accredited? Ensure the contractor is licensed and accredited by reputable organizations like the Better Business Bureau or local chambers of commerce. Additionally, check online reviews from platforms like Google, Yelp, or Angie's List for feedback from previous customers.
- Do you offer a warranty? A reliable contractor should provide a warranty for their work, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction and the quality of their services. This warranty should ideally be transferable to new homeowners if you decide to sell your property.
Ultimately, trust your instincts when hiring a contractor. Pay attention to their demeanor, professionalism, and willingness to address your concerns. By asking these questions and assessing their attitude, you can increase the likelihood of a positive experience. And collectively, we can help elevate standards within the contracting industry for everyone's benefit. After all, don't we deserve better?
If you have any questions about your home, schedule a FREE consultation with TerraFirma to have one of our System Design Specialists complete a thorough evaluation.
