Recommendations
Word of mouth is one of the best possible ways of feeling comfortable with your final choice of a home remodeling contractor. Not only will you have a better chance of enjoying the final result, but you'll also be much more likely to avoid getting cheated, payment disputes, and several other issues. This can be a time-consuming process, but it will be worth it in the long run.
Talk to friends, family members, neighbors, and co-workers first. If someone you trust steers you in a certain direction, you can be confident that the advice will be good. To be on the safe side, check with industry associations to see if some of the contractors you are considering are members. If they are, that means they're committed to keeping up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies. You can also talk to a local building inspector to get the names of contractors that meet local and state code requirements on a regular basis.
Red Flags
There are several indications that you should look elsewhere for help with your home remodeling project. For instance, you probably want to stay away from any door-to-door solicitors or companies that offer you discounts for referrals. If they use materials that were left over from previous jobs, they only accept cash, or they ask you to obtain any building permits that may be needed, those are also signs you need to move in another direction.
In addition, steer clear of companies that say your job will be a "demo," try to pressure you into making an immediate decision, or offer guarantees that are much longer than other contractors you're considering. Just remember the old adage, "if it seems too good to be true, it probably is." Other red flags include asking you to pay upfront or suggesting that you borrow money from a lender that works with the contractor.
Ask the Tough Questions
Once you've narrowed down your list, talk to each contractor over the phone to get a feel as to whether or not you'd like to work with the company. Ask them if they can handle the type of job you need, if they have references, and whether or not they're available at the time that's best for you. Have two or three contractors over to your house so you can see for yourself whether or not you'd be comfortable with them, and gauge how well they communicate.
