When considering a company for any kind of remodeling job, it’s extremely important to hire one that’s fully insured. “The first question people should ask is whether the employees are covered by workers' compensation insurance,” says Johans Wartenbergh, owner of American Kitchen and Bath (AKB) – Bathrooms by Hans. “Many contractors don’t carry it, which means the homeowner could be responsible for medical costs if an accident occurs. Be sure to find a legitimate contractor.”
It’s always a good idea to ask for references. Be sure to choose a company with extensive experience and a proven track record of customer satisfaction. Companies can try to win your business and trust with glowing claims of service and quality; however, it’s what their customers say that ultimately tells the story.
It’s a good idea to take into consideration the length of time a company has been in business, as well as the skill level of its employees. “We’re asked many times to look at projects that have been done by unlicensed or inexperienced contractors, and the workmanship is often unfinished or of poor quality,” says Mr. Wartenbergh. “The key is to hire someone who’s established, knowledgeable and reputable.” It’s perfectly reasonable to ask about the training and experience of the people who’ll be working in your home.
Any remodeling job has the potential to disrupt a household to a certain degree. Make sure the general contractor you hire will do everything in their power to avoid undue inconvenience or stress to the homeowners. This includes taking precautionary measures to minimize the impact on other areas of the house as well as ensuring there’s a thorough cleanup at the conclusion of each workday.
