Choosing the right contractor can make the difference between a successful renovation project and a complete disaster. Finding the right contractor who will complete a project with high quality work from start to finish can feel challenging. Below are some tips to consider before hiring a contractor for your next project.
LICENSE AND INSURANCE
Be certain the contractor you are considering is licensed and insured, by checking the license on this link:
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The license must be active and in good standing.
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Look up a contractor license or Home Improvement Salesperson (HIS) registration to verify information, including complaint disclosure.
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Look up a contractor license or Home Improvement Salesperson (HIS) registration to verify information, including complaint disclosure
WORKER’S COMPENSATION AND LIABILITY INSURANCE
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California law requires employers, including those in the construction industry, to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even if they only have one employee. Failure to maintain workers’ compensation insurance coverage will result in a suspended license. ▶ ️Learn MORE about workers’ compensation insurance.
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California law does not requires contractor to carry general liability, but is a plus if your contractor offers at less $1,000.000 per incident. Failure to maintain general liability coverage could be very harmful because your home insurance company will assume responsibility for all damages to your property.▶ ️Learn MORE about general liability insurance.
QUESTIONS TO ASK A CONTRACTOR
Ensure all requests are included and the price is based on the complete project.
YEARS IN BUSINESS.
How long have you been in business?
LICENSES AND ACCREDITATIONS
Are you licensed by the state or a trade organization?
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Who will be assigned as project supervisor for the job?
PROJECT TEAM
Who will be working on the project? Are they employees or subcontractors?
PROJECT APPROACH
What is your approach to a project such as this?
SIMILAR PROJECT EXPERIENCE
How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year?
REFERENCES
May I have a list of references from those projects?
REFERRALS/SUPPLIERS
May I have a list of business referrals or suppliers?
CONTRACTOR REPUTATION
What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
TRADE ASSOCIATIONS
What local and/or national trade associations do you belong to?
INSURANCE COVERAGE
Does the company carry workers compensation and liability insurance? (Always verify this information by calling the agency.)