What to look for when choosing a basement contractor.

When choosing a basement contractor many people have a very hard time navigating through the hype and finding that one company that you know is the right choice. As a contractor [for my entire professional career] both as an employee and as an owner, I can tell you that I also have a hard time finding the perfect contractor.

Key items to know about to help you navigate through the issues and find the right company. Ignore the flashy lights, high pressure sales tactics and marketing gimmicks that so many companies try to make us focus on.

 

REFERRALS – Get referrals for the same type of work you want to do!

Ask around, find some friends or family that have hired a contractor to do the “same type of work” you are looking to get done. “Same type of work” is a key factor. If your neighbor recommends a roofing contractor for your new deck it probably not a good fit.

Even if they did a great job on your neighbors house and the roofing contractor says he can build you a great deck, don’t do it, it’s just not a good idea. Make sure the referral you get is in line with the scope of work you are looking to accomplish.

 

PRICE – Cheapest is not best!

If you choose your contractor based on the lowest price you are asking for trouble. In most cases the lowest price never represents the best choice. If you don’t have a referral, always get three prices. Making sure that all 3 prices are based on the same scope of work with comparable equipment and materials.

When evaluating price for the project, pick the company in the middle. This will normally be your overall best value without sacrificing quality or feeling like your overpaying.

 

 

INSURANCE – Don’t start a project without it!

Make sure the company you hire is fully insured. Request a copy of the insurance certificate with the estimate. Prior to starting any work have a “Certificate of Insurance” (COI) issued to you for the project.

If the company makes excuses or says they can’t get insurance, DO NOT HIRE THEM. This is a red flag that there is a problem with that particular contractor.

The COI will outline coverages and the limits of that coverage. Also make sure the name of the company on the agreement you sign and the name of the company on the COI match up, you would be surprised how many times they don’t. By having a COI issued to you for the project you will be notified if the coverage is canceled for any reason.

 

More RULES will be coming soon. If you would like to get more information about any of the information covered in this article please contact us.

 Written by Chris Brown, Owner – Rescon Basement Solutions