When hiring a home remodeler, make sure they hold the necessary licenses and insurance to perform work in your community. This includes a business license, worker’s compensation and liability coverage. The contractor should also obtain all required permits through your local government before beginning the job, which can take up to a week.
A home remodeling project can feel overwhelming — but a professional contractor will ease your stress and ensure a high-quality result. Start your search by asking family and friends for recommendations based on their own experiences. You can also visit home improvement stores or look online for contractors with positive customer reviews and high ratings.
Once you’ve narrowed your list, ask prospective contractors to provide you with a sample of their previous work. This will help you gauge the quality of their work and their attention to detail. Also, don’t forget to check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for Accredited Contractors in your area.
Aim for 10 to 15 contractors with the right expertise to create a shortlist, suggests Sweeten. This is where the majority of your decision will come from, so make sure the contractors you’re considering have extensive experience with the type of home renovation you’re looking to do.
You should also consider whether the scope of the project exceeds your tool box and abilities, says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva. This could include knocking down walls, creating an additional bathroom or adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). In these cases, a licensed home remodeler can help navigate building permit processes and ensure the project is completed safely and in compliance with local code requirements.