4 Pro Tips on How to Hire a Contractor

Whether you want to build a new house or remodel an existing property, hire a general contractor in Sonoma County for your project. An experienced general contractor has amassed a wealth of specialized knowledge. They have spent years studying different construction methods. Their expertise enables them to develop foolproof project plans.

When searching for a trustworthy general contractor, you may meet some self-proclaimed experts who overpromise and underdeliver. Steer clear of such scammers. Evaluate your needs and determine if the contractor you are considering is equipped to meet them.

Here are our top tips for selecting a contractor who deserves your trust.

Get Recommendations

If a friend, family member, neighbor, or colleague has just wrapped up a new construction/design-build project, ask them about their experience working with their contractor, if the project was completed on time and within budget, and if they are satisfied with the end result. Ask the person if they would hire the contractor in the future.

Interview Prospects

Once you have created a list of your preferred contractors, call their office to schedule a meeting. Before meeting a contractor, do your homework. Visit their website and check out their portfolio. Prepare a list of questions to ask the contractor.

Here are some questions you can include in your questionnaire.

➢ Are you licensed for the type of work my project entails?

➢ Will you pull all of the required permits?

➢ Will you hire subcontractors for my project? If yes, do you have a plan to ensure seamless communication between the parties?

➢ Do you anticipate any challenges? How do you plan to overcome them?

➢ Can you give me an expected timeline for my project?

Investigate the Facts

Instead of taking everything that a contractor says at face value, verify their claims. Find out if there are any unresolved claims or cases against the contractor you are considering, and check the business with the BBB. Talk to contractor references.

Get an Estimate

Interview several contractors and determine who you could best work with. Enter a preconstruction contract with the selected contractor and begin the estimating and finish selections. When reviewing the estimate, check every cost element, including labor and material costs. Call the contractor’s office if you need help understanding a cost element. Check for hidden or “other costs” that are not included in the estimate.

While price is an important factor, do not base your decision on it alone. Instead of hiring a business that quotes an unrealistically low price, look for a company with a solid value proposition.

Holly Construction has carved a niche by constantly meeting and exceeding customer expectations. Our design-build experts have the expertise to manage complex, multifaceted projects from start to finish. To make an appointment, call (707) 541-0700.