Jumping at the first contractor bid is usually a recipe for disaster: not only could it leave you with a blown budget, but it could also throw off the deadline and leave you with sloppy work. Here’s a quick look at the rookie mistakes you should avoid when browsing for a contractor in your area:
Always Request Detailed Written Bids
A proper bid should be as detailed as possible, featuring materials, deadlines, cleanup, labour, permit fees, and any other subcontracted work. Basic drawing and plans should also be part of it (or specify when they will be provided!), unless you’re hiring a contractor for a simple fix-up. If the quote is vague, incomplete, or lacks the mentioned details, look for a different company.
Go Beyond the Bottom Line
Don’t just compare the final price tag. After all, one contractor may be using higher-tier materials, while another including much cheaper alternatives. Always compare quotes for similar material quality and scope of work.
Watch for Biting Hidden Costs
Hidden costs may drag you down into a financial quagmire. To avoid unwelcome surprises, always ask the company for what’s not included in the quote. As a rule of thumb, the best firms are upfront about the costs, while lower-tier ones may leave out the additional costs from the initial quote.
Use Verified Platforms
Right off the bat, skip the questionable websites with unverified reviews written by bots or the contractor’s innumerable relatives. Use aggregators, like https://www.myhomequote.com, to get a comprehensive overview of the best contractors in your state or city.
Past Experience
If the contractor’s website lacks visuals, ask for photos of past projects to evaluate the work and expertise. And generally speaking, the longer the firm has been around, the more likely you’re to end up with polished, quality work that won’t leave you with regrets.
