The Reno Coach

Finding the right Renovation Contractor for your project if big or small can be very challenging and frustrating. The internets is full of directories to list contractors willing to give free Estimates and are liecend and insured. Realty is different we wouldn’t have shows like Holmes on Homes if it where so easy to select the right Renovator for your Project and Budget.

For Starters Friends and Relatives are a good way to find a Renovations Contractor for your Kitchen, Bathroom or that New Family Room Addition. 

Checking references over the Phone is a easy way to verify your contractors References but also a sure way to get scammed by phony References. I f you spend 30 to 50K on that new Kitchens wouldn’t it be worth a few hours to actual look at the jobs your renovator has done in the past to see if the workmanship meets your specifications. . I my Experience as a Contractor only a very few Costumers actual ever check References les than 10%.

• Does the contractor begin/end on schedule?
• Is the crew adequate for size and scope of work?
• Does the work successfully pass inspections?
• How responsive is the contractor to problems?
• Is the contractor readily available by voice mail, beeper, or email?

• Maintains a stable and reliable crew
• Performs their craft in a skillful and professional manner
• Provides adequate site supervision
• Cooperates well with other trades
• Offers fair prices and remains cost conscious
• Uses material efficiently & effectively
• Keeps site clean and safe

• Contractor's  Registration Number
• Proof of Liability Insurance covering property damage and personal claims
• Proof of Worker's Compensation Insurance for employees

Cheap contractors may get the job for a cheap price, but you can probably count on work that is just as cheap. If you are paying a fair price for the work to be performed, you will foster trust and cooperation with your contractor from the beginning of your project.

You can make the project run smoother by being ready for a contractor when they arrive on your site. In addition, provide as much lead time as possible to inform the contractor of the status of your job and any unexpected conditions which must be met.

Nothing will replace your ability to think critically and analyze the unique circumstances surrounding your project. The weight of decision making must be fully acknowledged: site analysis, design choices, budget allowances, and work schedules affect your contractor choice.

After you've carefully assessed your particular situation, you'll choose the right contractor based on qualifications best suited to the special requirements of your project.

Find out what your contractor is in charge of and who will be yourcontact person. If you are

 interviewing the contractor, be suspicious.Ask why he is meeting with you instead of 

supervising his ongoing projects.

A good answer should factor in the schedules of everyone involved and consider the time it takes to design the project and to order and receive materials. Manufacturers’ schedules must also be considered.

If your contractor is too available, it could mean he is just starting out or doesn't have referral business. If the wait is too long, he could be overwhelmed or may be taking on more business than he can handle. A wait of two to four weeks is normal.