Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Contractor

Asking the right questions will lead to a successful project.

1. Is the company licensed and/or bonded? Hire only licensed contractors. They should be able to produce a license. Check the contractor's license number by calling 1-800-321-CSLB or doing a License Check
2. How long has the company been in business? Experience is important
3. Does the company carry proper insurance? General liability and worker’s comp - coverage for both your property and their workers
4. Will the company provide the required permits for the job? It’s important that the company knows the permits needed for the job and how to get them.
5. What type of guarantee does the company offer with their work? Does the manufacturer offer a guarantee on there product?
6. Ask for references and contact them. Make sure they had projects that are comparable to yours; ask them if they are pleased with the project and with the work done; find out if the price quote was on target and the plans remained within the original specs; ask if they showed up on time and was the project completed in a timely manner). Get three references, and review past work.
7. How much will the job cost? Get an estimate and a detailed plan of the job. Ask the company to explain their price quote – what each item is and is it necessary for the successful completion of the job. Ask if they offer financing. What are their payment terms - do they accept payments in installments? Seek competing bids and compare.
8. Get a written contract. Do not sign anything until you completely understand the terms. Ask how long will the job take? Pay 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less.
9. Does the company perform the work or use subcontractors? Who will be in charge of the job? Does the company have staff that can plan, design and install the system? Does the company have the right people for each phase of the project: identifying your needs and expectations, if what you want is really right for your home and if not what options can they provide.
10. Payments. Don't let payments get ahead of work. Keep records of payments. Don't make final payment until you're satisfied with the job. Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project

"Top Ten" Problems with Home Improvement Contracts

1. Notice regarding Registrar's address missing
2. Excessive down payment requested
3. Equipment to be used or installed not detailed, and materials to be used not described specifically enough
4. Notice to owner regarding liens not included
5. Job to be completed is not clearly stated and described
6. Right to cancel notice missing
7. Bid not figured out carefully and/or completely
8. Change orders not included
9. Old notices used with old addresses and noncompliant language
10. Start and stop dates not included

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