Thursday, December 16, 2010

7 Tips to Choosing the Right Remodeling Contractor


1. Ask Questions: Ask your contractor for referrals as well. Ask questions about reputation, quality of work, project scheduling and years of experience. Never take an estimate without examination and asking for clarification.

Almar’s information packets include References, and Testimonials. We expect and appreciate when a potential client reviews the estimate and then calls to ask questions and make changes; we know we don’t always get it 100% on the first try.

2. Apple & Oranges: If you are like most homeowners you probably talked to more than one Remodeling Professional. Did you explain everything equally to each company? Did they complete a design? Did they give you a detailed written estimate so you could compare the scopes of work? Make sure that you are comparing Apples to Apples when trusting someone with your house.

3. Did you know that according to the Small Business Administration, nearly 50% of all contractors go out of business in the 1st year, and over 95% go out of business in the first 5 years. Almar’s been in business for almost 50 years…

4. Quality & Service: Ask yourself: “Do they truly provide “quality” craftsmanship and service? Have you ever heard the old phrase: “You get what you pay for”? Who are their installers? Can you trust them in your home?

5. Insurance & Taxes: Almar’s info packets always include current licenses, insurance, certifications etc…Is everyone you are talking to operating a legal business? Do they have the correct licenses and insurance? Will you, your home & family be protected if something happens during the project? Did you know your homeowner’s policy does not protect you if a worker gets injured on your property or does damage to your home?

6. Warranty: What is their warranty on labor? Will they assist you with manufacture’s warranties?

Almar offers a 3 and 5-year warranty on all their work, fills out manufactures warranty cards, and creates a customized warranty and care & cleaning kit with all of the information you need regarding your project.

7. Project Management: if they are the owner/carpenter, what will happen to your project if they become sick or hurt? Who will finish the project? Who is there to keep the project moving? Who will come back to fix things AFTER the project is done?

Almar has several people who can handle any number of these items: regular communication from our office staff via phone, fax and site visits. We have a lead carpenter regularly on site managing the progress and reliable sub contractors, plumbers, electricians, and carpenters who have been team members for several years.

No matter whom you decide is a good fit for your project, you should feel comfortable and well informed. There are to many “contractors” who don’t have a long and safe track record. The preceding questions are intended as a guide to help you sort through all the factors involved in selecting a remodeling contractor. Our intent is to incorporate all areas concerning remodeling and renovation projects. Call 781-826-2577 for more information.

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