So, you’ve decided to remodel your home. Now you need to find a contractor who will get the job done in the time frame promised, and at or near the estimated cost. Be wary when looking at home improvement contractors, or else you can find yourself in a construction nightmare that can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. When it comes a hiring a contractor, doing some investigative work beforehand will save you a lot of hassle down the road.

Regardless of whether you are planning a basement remodel, a kitchen remodel, a bathroom remodel or want some room additions in an expansive home remodel, it is always a good first step to contact your local builders association for a list of contractors who are members as this will help you avoid the cowboy builders and rogue traders. Once you have narrowed down your list check with your state’s regulatory or licensing board. You want to make sure your potential contractor is licensed and find out if he has any upheld complaints against his work. Its a good idea toi also contact the Better Business Bureau. Once you have done your research, solicit bids from at least three contractors. You shouldn’t necessarily hire the lowest bidder either; remember, they have to pay for their supplies and labor costs, so an excessively low bid should be a red flag.

Once you’ve narrowed your list down, ask your prospective residential contractors some questions. How long have they been in business? Are they insured, including workman’s compensation and liability? Do they do the work themselves, or do they subcontract? If they subcontract, do they have a stable of subcontractors that they work with regularly? Who are their suppliers? Contact the subcontractors and suppliers and find out if they have good working relationships with the contractor. You should also ask for three references from past clients. Find out if they are satisfied with the work, if the project was completed on time and at the quoted cost. Once you find a contractor you feel comfortable with, you are ready for the contract.

You should never hire a residential contractor without a written building contract. The building contract should state exactly what work is to be done, the cost of the project, approximately when it will be completed, and the materials to be used, including the brand names. It can be difficult to find a contractor who is reliable and reputable. Doing the homework before you hire is time consuming, but remember you are investing a substantial amount of money in your home improvement project. You want it to be money well spent.

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