How to Choose the Right Remodeler or Contractor

Hiring a Guilford remodeler to alter your home is a lot like hiring a new employee for a company.  You have access to a lot of great looking resumes that show a lot of promise about a person.  However, you don't really know for sure if that person will be a good fit for the company until you sit down and have an interview with him or her.  The same is true when hiring a remodeler or contractor.  Before you simply hire someone to work on your project, take the time to sit down and talk to get a better idea of who that person is.  And while sometimes even conducting an interview isn't enough, there are some common warning signs that you should stay away from a particular remodeler or contractor.  Here are a few of them:

• If the contractor's name, phone number, address or credentials cannot be verified, there is a good chance that he is hiding something from you.  This is a good sign not to continue working with him.
• If the contractor tells you that you are entitled to a "special deal for a low rate" by using your home for advertising purposes, there is a good chance he is trying to scam you.  There is nothing wrong with him asking permission to put a sign in your yard, but do not buy into the "special rate" scheme.
• If the company cannot or refuses to provide you with any references, stay away.  Chances are this means that they know their previous customers have nothing good to say about them.
• If you cannot verify insurance or license information, that's a big red flag to stay away.  All reputable businesses should be able to do so.
• If the company wants you to pay the entire amount up front, be careful.  Most companies will ask you to pay a down payment but not the entire amount in advance.
• If you cannot find the company in the phone book, with the Better Business Bureau or with a local trade association, something is undoubtedly fishy about them.

When you do sit down with a contractor, be aware of whether or not he is being vague or hesitant to answer questions.  Also, if he refuses to show you work he has done in the past, that is another sign that something is wrong.  Almost all contractors love to show off previous work.  Finally, studies have shown that your initial gut feeling is usually very accurate.  If you don't feel comfortable with someone, don't hire him.