Hiring a general contractor.

When you hire a general contractor to remodel your home, it’s helpful to know what to expect, so start with the design you want. Are you doing a complete remodel? A kitchen? A bath? Adding square footage or moving walls and plumbing will require professionals to turn out the way you want. 

If you hire an interior design firm, or kitchen design firm, they will have excellent resources, including general contractors.  The designer wants a seamless, trouble-free project as much as you do, so they knows which contractors to hire, what they’re especially good at, and who to avoid. 

Other great resources for finding an excellent contractor are through friends and other trades that you have used and trusted in the past. It’s a small industry where professionals have strong working relationships amongst eachother. If you have ever worked with an electrician, plumber or even a landscaper they will often be able to refer you to a contractor that shares their values and quality of service.

The general contractor is in charge of scheduling, hiring, material estimation and acquisition, tear out, installation, waste disposal, permits, and insurance.  All of the sub-contractors and their workers will report to him or her.

Ask for references. Most clients are happy to tell others if they had a good experience, and they understand your need to check referrals. Certifications can indicate standards of professionalism and values.

Hiring a general contractor can protect you by knowing the latest building codes and getting the proper building permits so your job is insurable by your homeowner’s insurance. The firm will also provide worker’s compensation to cover workers who might get injured on your property. 

Make certain the scope of the work is detailed in the estimate, so you know what, when, where work will be done.

Last but not least, using a resource like homestars.net will allow you to view hundreds of verified reviews of almost every reputable general contractor in your area.