If you want to update your space or build a new building, choosing a general contractor should be carefully taken into consideration. To ensure that you hire the right person for the job, you need to know the key factors to keep in mind. Below are some of them.
1. Written Quotation – One of the most essential factors to consider is the written quotation together with the costs breakdown. The quote given to you must have a clear outline of all the costs of materials and labor. Also, it must include the estimated time of the project’s completion.
2. Estimated Time – The next thing to ask from the contractor you are considering is the approximate time of completion of the project. Even before you sign the contract, make sure that your contractor is very much aware of your deadline. Make sure he can give you a written project schedule.
3. Years of Experience – The experience of the contractor in the business is a key factor. Ideally, choose a contractor who has at least five years of proven experience in the industry. Be very cautious with those contractors who are still new and with low quotes. They might offer you a low service quality. Although experienced contractors may appear expensive at first, you will sure enjoy several advantages with their quality of work compared to the less experienced ones.
4. Company Reputation – Your research should also touch the company’s reputation. If you have certain companies in mind, take time to search for their reputation online. A company or contractor with excellent and consistent reputation can go a long way. You may also ask the contractor for references. Or, ask other people on what they have to say about the contractor you are considering. You do this online or ask around.
5. Involved Subcontractors – Always make sure to know who are the contractors to be involved in the project. Once you already know the names, set a time for a quick meeting with them. Subcontractors also play a big part in your project. So, you need to ensure that they have a good attitude, service, and communication skills. All these are needed for a good outcome.
6. Health and Safety Plans – A good contractor must have prepared safety and health plans before doing the project. This would simply mean that all workers must have the necessary clothing and equipment for safety purposes, both for the contractors and the project. You may also ask the WSIB a clearance certificate to know if the company or contractor is in good standing.
7. Payment Terms – Before you sign a contract, it is essential that the payment terms are clear. In most cases, you are going to make a modest deposits (10%) on signing and product deposits (30-50%). However, there should be no other payment to be given in advance besides these two. Otherwise, it will be a cause of headache when the contractors always ask payment in advance.
8. License and Insurance – Finally, you have to ask if the contractor has the license to offer services to you. Of course, you will want to work with licensed contractors. Also, make sure that they have insurance in case something happens to them while carrying out the job. This keeps you from additional headaches.