There’s an obvious advantage to hiring a homebuilder who works without sub-contractors. “The only reason you self-perform is so you can beat your competition,” says Jeff Harkey, who co-owns Harkey Construction with his wife, Lori. “So if you’re self-performing a large majority of the work, customers can end up with a better price.” Also, says Mr. Harkey, general contractors who self-perform can exercise tighter control over a job, which translates to higher quality and more rigorous timelines.
Mr. Harkey suggests not hiring a builder unless they have direct experience with the same type of project as yours. The tight U.S. economy is forcing many contractors to venture into types of construction they don’t fully understand, creating a “nightmare situation,” he says. “Many contractors are trying commercial work, tenant improvements, a new restaurant they’ve never touched before…it’s getting out of hand.”
Before hiring a general contractor, Mr. Harkey suggests you ask simple questions about credentials. Are they licensed? Do they carry the right insurance in the right quantities? How long have they been in business? He also recommends you request references and not hesitate to contact them.
