In order to work well with a contractor, you need to choose a good one for starter. After that, you’ve got to understand how they work in order to be a little more understanding. They’ve got lots of jobs at any given time. This is because they can’t possibly survive with one client. Knowing that, try to be a little more courteous when they say they can’t make it on a particular day. Also realize that sometimes the weather affects when a project will be completed.

Many people get frustrated when the contractor gives them a certain day to finish, and the project is still going two weeks after that day. Projects can take longer depending on the climate conditions. For example, if the house needs to be painted…that can’t be done if its too humid or too cold. It affects the paint drying.

So, you see, there are many little things that dictate when the project will be done that are out of their control, and affect the end-date. Here are some things that you should know, though, going into the project. Read: Employee vs. Independent Contractor Explained.

His loyalty is primarily with his subcontractors, not yours. This is because they have a relationship based on making money. They actually depend on each other for it. Also know that your contractor will be at your house least of everyone. You’ll see his subcontractors much more often than you’ll ever see him.

In order to pick a good contractor, you need to look to see if he has a criminal record, if he is licensed, if he has liability insurance, and if there are any complaints filed against his company with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Definitely run a credit check on them. Find a Contractor on Angie’s List. You also should get several different quotes from different contractors.

Don’t always just choose the first one that you talk to. Be aware of whether he is using materials that he said he had leftovers of. Chances are, they could be shoddy materials. Not only that, but they could be leftover from another job. This means that if you have any leftover materials, he’ll be doing the same thing to you…giving them to another one of his clients and charging them money when you paid for them. See: Another Great Video on How to Hire a Great Contractor.

Lastly, never pay a contractor up front. You can give them a deposit, but never over 40% of the project cost. Any more than that, and you’ll regret it. People often don’t work as hard for a job when they’ve already been paid for it…would you give your best? Probably not. See: Building Supplies & Materials at Lowe’s.

Want Your Project to Go Smoothly? Follow These Pointers To Find a Great Contractor, and How to Communicate Well With Him

One thought on “Want Your Project to Go Smoothly? Follow These Pointers To Find a Great Contractor, and How to Communicate Well With Him

  • January 4, 2016 at 9:31 am
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    Be aware, that with contractors, if there was no contract signed, and something goes wrong, then there isn’t much to do. Every one who hires a person and allows them into their home to do work MUST check their information and licensing prior to hiring. The first thing that should be done if there is an issue, is to document the work (with pictures, reports etc.). Do not fix or correct anything until something has been done.

    You will then need to seek out legal advice to see what you can do, if anything. Check references, and look at examples of the contractors work. Far too many clients simply pick a contractor based on the lowest price without factoring in all the variables.

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