Looking for the right kitchen remodeler can seem like a challenge, but you can make it easier. When you take some simple steps, it could imply that you would have found the contractor, who would do the work for you quite well.
Ask for word of mouth references
Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a good professional in order to handle the job. Find out from neighbors, friends, and relatives by asking them who they had positive experiences with. Find out what made them find the experience with the contractor positive. Also, ask how they solved any problems with the remodeler and whether your relative or friend would use the same remodeler again.
Take a look at their credentials
Take a look at the variegated recommendations. Do some basic research whether by visiting the remodeler’s website or by calling him up. Do research on whether the contractor has the license from the state and local governments as well as designations from any associations for professionals. Any good professional remodeler would have passed tests and also invested in coursework that are rigorous in order to be able to earn a particular certification.
Interview candidates
Set up meetings by narrowing down the list of contenders. How a remodeler answers your questions is very important. However, communication has to go both ways.
Check the variegated references
Once you have established a rapport with the remodeler, ask to see some of his projects. If a green signal is given by him or her, then you should request references from him or her so that you can make a call to the people, who have been referred to.
Get in writing
Scrutinize all those documents that have been prepared for you by the remodeler, after you have zeroed in on one contractor. Do they look professional to you? Go through the contract you would be signing with them thoroughly. Make sure that the agreement is in written and that it includes a bid payment schedule and a bid price. The contract should also have details including a site plan, a list in case of a procedural close out, a clause about dispute resolution, and so on so that this would prevent contractors as well as subcontractors from putting a lien on your house should the dues go unpaid for by the contractor.
Get answers to questions
Make a list of questions you would like answers from the subcontractor to. Based on the phone interviews, see which contractor is most suitable for your project. Make sure you get along well with your contractor because they would be spending hours at a time in your house. On the other hand, do not let their personality fool you. Check in with your local Better Business Bureau and your state’s consumer protection agency. Make sure they do not have a history of disputes and problems with their subcontractors or clients.
Now that you have shortlisted a list of contractors, put your research to good use. Call up the former clients of these contractors and find out about the quality of the services they offer.