Secret #3: How To Choose the Right Contractor:
Questions To Ask A Contractor… Before You Invite Him into Your Home

1. Are you licensed?

Make sure your contractor is properly licensed. In the State of Texas not all contractors are required to be licensed.

2. Do you carry general liability insurance?

Make sure your contractor carries general liability insurance. This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contractor and/or their employees. The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing any damage that occurs. Make sure you have the insurance company fax or mail you a certificate of insurance with you named as the certificate holder.

3. Will you provide me with written lien waivers?

Your contractor should provide you with written lien waivers. Sub-contractors and suppliers have the right in most jurisdictions to file mechanics liens against your property if the contractor does not pay them. Even though you may have paid the contractor for those materials or work, if he doesn’t meet his obligations, the supplier can look to you. After you pay the contractor, make sure to get a lien waiver to protect yourself from these suits.

4. Are you a member of NARI or other organizations?

Choose a NARI contractor. NARI stands for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. It’s always a good idea to consider hiring a NARI contractor. Here’s why: In most cases NARI attracts only conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and, in weeding out the unprofessional builders. Secondly, in order to become a member, NARI investigates a contractor’s background and references. Third, all NARI members must sign a written code of ethics and pledge to professionalism. Most members take this pledge very seriously.

5. Will you pull all the required building permits?

Make sure your contractor pulls all required permits. This is very important. When a contractor pulls the required building permits, you know things will be done properly and to “code”. Also, many homeowners insurance policies require you to pull permits on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered. Not all contractors will do this. Many prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the “hassle” with the inspectors. Some contractors may ask you to get the permits. A reputable contractor will permit every job where a permit is required.

6. Do you guarantee your work?

Your contractor should guarantee his work. We have always felt here at Doing What’s Right Construction that if you can’t guarantee it, then don’t build it. We believe every job should be backed with a workmanship warranty. Many contractors will not guarantee their work. Most faulty workmanship will be easily detected within one year time period. If your builder won’t guarantee it, don’t buy it.

7. Who will be in charge of the job?

Ask who will be on the job everyday? A foreman or superintendent? This is especially significant on a large project where several workers or sub-contractors will be necessary to complete the project. If you will be gone during the day and have to leave your home unlocked for the work to be completed, you do not want to be worried about what is going on when you are not there. So meet with the foreman or project manager prior to proceeding in order to make sure that you are comfortable in leaving your home in his or her hands.

8. Will you provide me with written references?

A good contractor should gladly provide you with references. You should look for a well-established contractor who can give you several customer references of projects completed in the last 6 months. If they are not current it could be a sign that the contractor may not be current either.

9. How do you handle “dirty work”? Dust and dirt can get everywhere! Especially if any sanding is being done. Make sure the contractor will cover your floors and/or furniture with tarps. If possible have him seal off the construction site with a plastic drop cloth. Make sure it’s understood you want the debris cleaned up at the end of the day. Will he dust? Do laundry? Well, let’s not get carried away, but the place shouldn’t be left a mess.