What Questions Should You Ask Before Hiring a Contractor?

Home renovations often require the professional expertise of a general contractor to ensure your projects are completed correctly–the first time and on budget.

Hiring a contractor helps eliminate the hassle and stress of permitting, material purchasing, project management, and more that are all a part of the process.

2 Huge Benefits of Hiring a Contractor

Whether it is a total home renovation or just updating your bathrooms, there are many benefits to hiring the right general contractor for the job.

Professional Designs

General contractors bring a wealth of design knowledge and experience to help you re-work your spaces and make them more functional for your lifestyle. They can help you choose the right elements that best meet your aesthetic preferences and your functional needs.

Project Manager

There are several moving parts that any home renovation will require and managing all of them can be tricky. Your contractor should be able to manage your entire project, from ordering materials and hiring subcontractors to acquiring permits and staying on schedule.

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5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a General Contractor

Not every contractor will be the right fit for you and your project. From their portfolio to their communication style, there are a few questions you should ask prospective contractors.

Question #1: Do you have a license and insurance?

This question should be at the top of your list to get answered. Requesting a copy of their license and confirming it is current and in good standing can build trust and provide you with added peace of mind.

Hiring a contractor who has the appropriate license and insurance helps protect them, your home, and you by shielding you from any damage liability or injury liability while workers are in your house, on the job.

Question #2: How many building permits have you successfully obtained in my area?

Local building codes and regulations vary from city to city. Likewise, the permitting process is different, as well.

Asking how many building permits they have successfully obtained in your area can demonstrate that they are familiar with your local codes and understand what is necessary to efficiently complete your project.

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Question #3: Who is responsible for obtaining required permits?

This can be a follow-up question to the previous question. Perhaps they haven’t successfully obtained any building permits because they do not include that as a part of their services. In which case, it is good to know if you will be expected to acquire the necessary building permits.

Question #4: What is your communication style?

Communication is a necessity throughout your home renovation, so finding out how your prospective contractor communicates is important. Do they respond in a timely manner; will they notify you if a complication arises; do they text, email, call?

You should also ask them to identify who will be the point of contact for your project.

Question #5: Do you work with specific suppliers?

Asking this question can shed light on the reliability and quality of the contractor’s workmanship. General contractors and suppliers have a unique relationship, so if you want to learn a bit more about their professional reputation and workmanship, you can speak with their suppliers once you find out who they are.

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At Ryan A. Jones & Associates, we work with you to capture your unique vision for your home. As expert builders and renovators of luxury homes, we can provide you with the services and knowledge necessary for a successful home (or room) remodel.

From the beginning of the project to completion, we provide you with everything necessary to get the job done right and on time. We will make your vision come to life and exceeds your expectations. Contact us today for a consultation!