A. While there is no silver bullet for selecting the proper contractor, there are ways you can become a more confident and sophisticated consumer of such services. Unscrupulous contractors and water have commonality — they both take the course of least resistance. Here are some tools necessary for success in dealing with the home improvement industry:
First of all, always get 3 references but do it with a twist. Ask for 3 problem customers. Now, if the contractor tells you they do not have 3 problem customers, they either have not been in business long or they are lying to you (each situation needs to be considered). The way a company handles its problem customers is the true measuring stick of its quality.
Call the customers and ask them the following questions: What was your problem? Was it handled in a timely and professional manner? Were you treated with respect throughout the entire process? Professional relationships are just like personal ones — if the respect is not there, walk away from them.
Ask prospective contractors two technical questions that are relative to the proposed project. You shouldn’t allow yourself to be dominated in discussion by anyone, particularly with home improvement contractors.
For example, when building a new deck, call your local building inspector and ask him or her to provide you with a couple of code related questions. Example: What is the maximum amount of space allowed between the balusters used on your handrail? How much can one step’s height vary from step to step? If you are unsure of what questions to ask, tell the inspector that you want to ask prospective contractors a couple of “project specific” questions.
While meeting with the contractors for an estimate, go ahead and ask your questions. If the contractor can’t answer your questions on the spot, they are probably not all that qualified for the task at hand.
Because instincts are impossible to quantify, or even qualify for that matter, home improvement experts are reluctant to advise you to consider your instincts. I say that deep down inside, a majority of us know when we are making the right decision.
However, whether it is because of urgency, dollar savings or a lack of due diligence, a lot of homeowners make the wrong decision when hiring contractors. If you follow good advice and instincts, you can take the con out of construction.
Kaile Warren is CEO/Founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his newly adopted white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com