When you are preparing to build out a property, whether as the tenant or as the property owner, you’ll need to call on a reputable professional contractor or construction company to help you get the job done right. As you begin the selection process for your build out, there are a number of questions to ask to ensure you get the best team for your unique project. Here, you’ll find a compilation of the questions you need to ask before hiring a contractor.
- Start with Reviews for the company or contractor you’re considering. The best companies have stellar reputations because their consistently satisfy their customers. Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. Read reviews on third party review sites and look for references on the companies’ webpages as you explore the reputation of the companies on your short list.
- Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few potential candidates, check those companies rankings with valued, trusted resources like the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC) and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). It’s always a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for ratings as well, after all you are hiring them to work on your business success. You want to make sure their BBB ratings are high and there is a limited number or better yet, no complaints against them that remain unresolved.
- Now that you have gauged their reputation among their clients, their ranking among their peers, and their rating with the BBB, call on these contractors to view their portfolio. You’ll want to see pictures of their previous projects, complete with before and after shots, and what they consider their most successful work.
- Next, you’ll want to ask for an on-site quote. Contractors should be willing to travel to your location and provide a solid quote. This allows you to compare pricing and ensure you get the best value for your budget.
- As you work toward your final decision, ask each contractor if they are bonded, insured, licensed, as well as any other like requirements in your location. Having the appropriate licensure, insurance, etc. ensures the coverage to guarantee your property as well as the workers onsite at any given time during your project.
- Another important consideration is if these contractors are in good standing with reputable suppliers and sub-contractors. Don’t hesitate to ask about the suppliers and sub-contractors they work with and, if you have any doubts, contact them and ask about their relationship with the contractors on your short list.
- Next, ask the contractors about building permits. You want to choose a contractor who will handle procurement of building permits and help you at any point in the process to obtain all the necessary documents to move the project forward.
- Now, with your quotes in hand compare pricing and time to completion plans – does each contractor offer a fair assessment of your project’s needs? Look at the material’s list, compare the prices, not only contractor to contractor, but with other local suppliers if there are areas of concern. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about materials, quality, costs, and timelines. Getting the answers beforehand can save a lot of aggravation later in the project.
- Lastly, consider how you feel about each contractor and “trust your gut” as the saying goes. Trusting your instincts can go a long way when choosing a contractor for your project. If you have concerns about one or more contactors on your list, move on to another with whom you feel comfortable. You’ll have questions along the way and a good relationship is key to getting the answers you need as well as the quality job you expect.
Put the professional team at Perillo Construction on your short list, they know how to answer your questions and get your project completed on time and in budget – always with the highest quality and unmatched customer service.