Hiring a qualified contractor is the first step to success in your construction project. It is an important decision that you must think through if you want the best to come out of it. The best approach is to ask relevant questions to your potential contractors to gauge their ability to deliver outstanding construction work.
7 Must Ask Questions
- Do you have a contracting license?
The first question should always target the professionalism of the contractor. You must know whether they have a valid license to operate in the city where you intend to build. A business license is not enough for contractors in the real estate industry. They must have licenses that permit them to carry building-related services in the city.
- Are you insured?
You don’t want to invest in a project that doesn’t have insurance. A good contractor needs valid insurance to compensate for any liability that may occur during the construction. Asking about insurance isn’t good enough; you must ask to see the certificate of insurance. Use the certificate to confirm the legitimacy of the insurance. These measures will protect your construction project.
- How long will it take to complete the project?
Once you have the layout of the project, the contractor should be able to provide a timeline for handling the project to its completion. Talk about other things that might affect the rate of completion. For example, let the contractor clarify if they have an ongoing project that may affect the schedule. They should also tell you if there are impending projects that could delay your construction. While at it, you should discuss how changes in your timeline will be addressed.
- What is the payment schedule?
You need to start thinking about the payment schedule with your contractor. You must agree on a working model that will ensure the efficiency of the project. A reputable contractor should not ask you to provide the full price of contracting work upfront. You should have payment terms that are flexible. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have the money for the project ready.
- Will you hire subcontractors for the job?
It is rare to have contractors offering all specialized services with their workforce. Many reputable contractors are known to subcontract work to painters, plumbers, electricians, and other specialized workers.
You must know the names of the people your general contractor will subcontract to. This will help you verify their credentials and see if they are fit to take part in your construction project.
- How long have you been working?
Experience is an important factor in the real estate industry. An ideal contractor is one that has handled many construction projects. You should ask about your contractor’s experience and the list of referees.
- Is there a written warranty?
The most important thing that you should come out with from the interview with your contractor is an assurance of a written warranty. You should deal with a contractor that is willing to warranty their work using legal documents.
These questions are what you need to examine the viability of your next construction project.