#also my basement flooded and insurance won't cover the costs to repair it and to prevent it from happening again in the future

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8 Questions You Must Ask a Remodeling Contractor Before Hiring Them

Anyone who's ever worked on a home remodeling project knows that the right contractor can make all the difference. You may have a basic idea of what your kitchen or bedroom will look like, but no one knows your home better than an expert in the field.  You need someone who specializes in structure and design to meet home renovation’s highest quality and safety.

Whether you're planning a full-on home renovation or just putting in a new bathroom, hiring a remodeler is a tough decision. There are plenty of options on the market, and choosing one should not be done hastily. To help you, here are eight questions you should ask before signing on with a remodeling contractor:

1.    Are you a licensed contractor? 

The most important thing you can look for when hiring a contractor is their license. Being licensed indicates that they are legitimate and that they comply with state standards. It also lets you know that you're dealing with an honest and authorized business. A lot goes into obtaining these licenses, and they can't be faked. When you consider remodelers, check their documents.

2.    Can you show me some references?

The best remodeling contractors will have at least ten to twenty references you can contact and vouch for the quality of their work. Aside from that, they should also provide a portfolio of their completed projects. It is an excellent way to check if they have a proven track record of completing jobs successfully, safely, and on schedule.

3.    Have you done projects similar to mine?

Before hiring a contractor, make sure they have experience with the kind of renovation you want to have. If they don’t, ask them if they're willing to collaborate with you on getting your project done right. In this case, you should expect that there might be some trial and error as they figure out the best way to do the project.

4.    How will my project be supervised?

You should ask the contractor how often they'll stop by to check on your project to ensure it goes according to plan. If they aren't going to inspect it every day, you should ask who will manage the work on-site instead. Having someone in-field monitoring progress keeps things moving forward efficiently and makes sure that nothing falls through the cracks!

5.    Will you work with subcontractors on my project?

As you probably know, some contractors are likely to hire subworkers to do part of the job, so it's essential to understand how this will impact your project. You need to know exactly who will work on it and when and whether the main remodeler will be there to supervise their team. If a potential contractor doesn't want to talk about subcontractors, maybe it's time to look for another one.

6.    What is the expected timeline for this project?

While getting estimates, it's important to know how long your home renovation will take. If you have a deadline in mind, share it with your contractor and ask if they can meet it. Also, ask about any circumstances that can delay their completion. This will also be an excellent time to ask how many projects they are currently handling. Remodelers can assess the renovation timeline according to their existing workload.

7.    Which types of insurance do you carry? 

Your contractor should carry general liability insurance, covering any damage to your property. If a worker accidentally strikes a water pipe and floods your basement, you won't be left responsible for the repair costs.

Furthermore, you should ensure that your contractor has workers' compensation insurance. If one of the people working in your home is injured, this type of policy will cover medical expenses and lost wages. It will also protect you from paying out-of-pocket if you are sued after a worker gets hurt while working.

8.    Do you issue any written warranty? 

In addition to guaranteeing their work, your remodeling contractor should also offer a written warranty to cover the work they provide. It should clearly outline what is covered in the renovation, what is not, and for how long it will be. 

Get in Touch With a Professional Remodeler Today!

Choosing a contractor to remodel your home is a big decision. They should have the ability to get your project done with high standards of professionalism, quality craftsmanship, and safety. Are you planning to renovate your space? Find a remodeler that meets your needs.