If you need to hire a contractor for a project in or around your home, you want to make sure you hire the right one. Here are some tips to help you do that.
GET RECOMMENDATIONS
Get recommendations from family or friends. I can recommend contractors and am always grateful for any recommendations you have for me. You can also check with building inspectors and supply houses to see who they recommend.
CHECK THEIR LICENSE
In California, contractors performing work that is valued at $500 or more must be licensed with the Contractors State License Board. Make sure your contractor is licensed. You can check online at the Contractors State License Board, or you can call them at (800)321-2752.
INTERVIEW MULTIPLE CONTRACTORS
Find out if the contractor takes on the type and size of project you want to do. Ask how many projects they are currently working on. When you meet with them, look at their license and photo ID to make sure you are dealing with the person who holds the license. Ask for a list of previous clients. Contact these clients to get their opinions and visit the contractor’s current job sites. Find out how long they have worked with their subcontractors, and if they have a business address and phone number in case you need to find them to fix something after the job is complete.
INSURANCE AND BONDS
Ask to see the contractor’s certificate of insurance or get their insurance information so you can verify they are insured. If they have employees, California requires them to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Check with your insurance company to make sure their workers’ compensation insurance is adequate. You could be financially responsible if a worker gets injured on your property. You can find more information from the California Department of Insurance.
Licensed contractors in California are required to have a contractor license bond. These bonds can protect you against substandard work. Learn more about insurance and contractor bonds.
GET BIDS
Do your planning so you know the complete scope of work you want to have done and get written bids from multiple contractors. California requires that improvement projects with over $500 in combined labor and materials costs have a written contract. Make sure you understand the contract and the financial terms. Contractors can ask for downpayments, but there are limits to how much they can ask from you up front. The Contractors State License Board tells you what to look for in your contract.
GET A PERMIT
Not having permits on your home improvement projects can cause you all kinds of problems when it’s time to sell your home. It can also lead to safety issues or fines and penalties from your local building authority. Contact your local building department to see if you need a permit for the work you are doing.
It may seem like a lot of work to hire the right contractor, but the time and energy you spend up front will help you avoid expensive problems and headaches down the road.