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How to find a reliable contractor

When it comes to getting things done around the house, it is often better to leave it to the professionals. This is why many people today turn to hiring a contractor. However, as you likely know, hiring any contractor is not the same as hiring a reliable contractor. With that in mind, here are some tips that you can use to help you find the right contractor for you and your project.

Follow these steps, and it will make it much easier to hire an expert that you can trust will do the job you paid for.

Avoid word of mouth recommendations on their own

Word of mouth is a powerful form of marketing, but it is not enough anymore. Today, if someone recommends a company to you, unless you trust them without reservation, you should evaluate the recommendation. Look them up online, see what others think, and find out what the general consensus appears to be. Why? Because it will ensure that you do not hire the wrong person based on a single recommendation you did not follow-up.

Speak to more than one contractor

Even if the first recommended contractor seems perfect, you should always get a second opinion. Try and avoid playing them off one another, though; contractors have enough competition to worry about without gossip from clientele.

Instead, try and find out what they offer in terms of prices, timelines, deadlines, and guarantees. Then, you can make an educated decision based on the above, as opposed to putting all of your eggs in one basket.

Always get a written estimate

Many of us mistakenly get an estimate from a contractor without having them write it down. If someone offers you a price, ask for it in writing. An estimate is not always exact, but it should be within the rough cost of the job without any serious changes happening. If a contractor is unwilling to give you a written price, move on – this is not a good sign for the project!

Evaluate their subcontract program

Many contractors will use a subcontractor to help them do jobs they might not have the time to do themselves, or the skills. For example, it is not uncommon for a joiner to work alongside a plasterer on certain jobs. Work this out first, though, as you can get a better deal if you understand their subcontract situation. It also helps evaluate additional costs due to the extra workers needed.

Investigate their reputation and license

Lastly, make sure you ask to see proof of their credentials if their trade has a credential program. Then, be sure to research them out on directories, review platforms, social media, and so on. If a contractor does a good job, people will tell you. If a contractor made a mess of a project, the internet will be full of examples and comments!

Keep the above in mind, and hiring a reliable contractor will be something you can easily handle and work out today.