Renovating a home is a big job. You may be content to hire a handyman for a small job like repairing a window or garbage disposal, or you may even try to do it yourself, but for something as big as a bathroom remodel, kitchen remodel, or room addition, you must find professionals to know the job will be done properly.

And it isn’t enough that a contractor knows their stuff. You also need to be sure they can meet your timeline and budgetary needs, and, perhaps most importantly, that you will feel comfortable having them in your home. Today’s guide offers some guidance into finding the right contractor for your home renovations, and ensuring you’ll get the work you need completed by professionals in the industry and in customer service.

Get a Few Bids

First, you should get multiple bids from prospective clients before you start a project. There’s no reason to put all your eggs in one basket. Do your homework: ask friends and family for recommendations, try larger firms and smaller contractors, and make sure each bid and estimate includes references from previous jobs.

Be Sure You’re a Fan of Their Portfolios

Of course, you probably won’t want to get a bid from someone whose portfolio you’re not really a fan of. You also don’t want to get a bid from someone without an extensive portfolio or history, as this could indicate a lack of experience. Go through the complete portfolio and see that the work looks clean, doing your best to ensure the work is their own. Find someone who can do a range of styles and installations, keeping in mind that the client is typically the one guiding the design.

Check Credentials

A contractor should be licensed and insured, protecting you in case anything happens to your property while contractors are on the job. They should have adequate coverage, which you can determine by asking for copies of their liability insurance. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure they are able to quickly resolve complaints.

Get a Feel for Their Timing and Work Ethic

Get some idea of whether a company seems like the type you’d be happy to work with. A friendly demeanor and a willingness to listen and work is one important thing. You might also get some sense of how they work by requesting the initial bid. If they’re late getting a quote back to you, this doesn’t reflect well on their ability to stick to a timeline.

Obtain All the Details—in Writing

Finally, it’s important to make sure you’ve gotten all of the details hammered out in writing. That includes a reasonable timeline, cost estimates for work and materials, and any concerns you may have. The contractor should agree to pull any necessary permits, and you should have a schedule in place for making payments. It should also specify what should happen with any change orders, when plans are changed in the middle of a job.

Advanced Builders & Contractors is a licensed and insured contractor in Los Angeles, CA. Contact our friendly team today!