Hiring a contractor can be a difficult thing to do, especially if you’ve been burned by a bad egg in the past. You should always go with someone you can trust to be upfront about cost and process and to do the exact job you asked for. Use this list of advice about how to hire a contractor to renovate your home when looking for your perfect fit!

Have a Plan For Hiring Contractors

Before even making calls to prospective contractors, you should have a list of exactly what you want to be done around the house and set a firm budget number. Changing course during a project can cost you extra money, so be firm on what’s needed, but know that unexpected snags can raise the cost of a project, too.

Meet Your Contractor In Person

A phone conversation is one play; a personal meeting is a different game altogether. Always meet with a contractor beforehand and lay out your plans to them. How they answer and communicate their approach can make or break your decision. Don’t pay or agree to anything without meeting your contractor in person!

Do Some Contractor Research

After a personal meeting, you might feel pretty good about a choice. Don’t be taken in just yet – you still need to hit the Internet and do some legwork! The Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, social media feedback, and former clients are all great for gauging a contractor. Don’t hesitate to ask your friends or neighbours for some good advice, too.

A good contractor is also honest with you, so read their website, see what they’re upfront about, and talk with them before making a commitment. If there are referrals on their website, ask about them! Usually, three solid references are what you should be aiming for.

Communication When Hiring Contractors is Key

You should be able to communicate with your contractor with ease, not just in an initial meeting, but throughout the renovation process, too. Communication is the second most important thing after their ability to do the work, and it can make the entire process much smoother and more comfortable.

Put Everything In Writing When You Hire a Contractor

Don’t get caught unaware – have everything on paper. A contract should go through the steps of the work, payment schedule, insurance, liability, and start and end dates. This will give you the proof you need should a dispute arise, but remember to stick to it yourself.

Learn Your Own Rights As You Learn How To Hire A Contractor To Renovate Your Home!

You have rights as the consumer, and you should know them before signing a contract or committing to a down payment. When doing your research, go to the Consumer Protection Ontario website to read your rights. Don’t get fooled – home renovations are costly, so treat it as serious business! If you have any questions about how to hire a contractor to renovate your home feel free to reach out to us now. And while you’re at it take a look at our previous blogs for inspiration and advice.