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10 Questions to Ask Before You Hand Over Your Wallet to a Contractor
Season 36 Episode 1928
Hiring a contractor can feel like picking the right partner for a dance—get it wrong, and you might end up stepping on some toes! That’s why we’re diving into the nitty-gritty with Eric G as he shares his top 10 questions to ask before you let just anyone waltz into your home for a remodel or renovation. From checking if they’re licensed and insured (because you don’t want to be liable for someone else's bad day) to making sure they offer clear written estimates that won’t leave you guessing, we’ve got you covered. We’re talking about the essentials—like how to ensure they’re not just good with a hammer but also experts in the specific project you’re tackling. So grab a comfy seat, put on those thinking caps, and let’s get ready to dance our way through the contractor hiring process with style and a sprinkle of fun!
When diving into the nitty-gritty of hiring a contractor, there’s no shortage of things you need to keep in mind. Eric G lays it all out on the table with his top 10 questions that could save you from a world of hurt—or at least a couple of headaches! First off, we're talking licenses, bonds, and insurance. You want to ensure your contractor is legit. No one wants a fly-by-night operation showing up at their doorstep with a toolbox and a dream. Eric emphasizes the importance of understanding your local laws, which can vary significantly. Some areas have stringent regulations while others are more of a free-for-all. It’s like trying to navigate a maze blindfolded—without the right information, you could end up in a sticky situation.
Next on the list? Background checks! Yep, it's not just for potential romantic partners; you should do the same for your contractor. A quick Google search can unearth a treasure trove of information. Look for reviews, past projects, and maybe even a juicy scandal or two (hey, we’re all human, right?). You wouldn’t want to hire someone with a track record of disappearing with clients' deposits or worse, leaving a trail of chaos behind them. Eric also stresses the importance of clear written estimates. If your contractor hands you a vague number scribbled on a napkin, run for the hills! You need detailed estimates that outline every single aspect of your project, from materials to labor costs, to ensure you’re not caught off-guard later.
But wait, there's more! Eric digs into the expertise of your contractor. Are they a jack-of-all-trades or a master of one? If you’re hiring someone to put in a new roof, you want a roofer, not a guy who thinks he can wing it because he once watched a YouTube tutorial. Communication is also key. Are they responsive, friendly, and organized? You want to work with someone who respects your time and keeps you in the loop. Lastly, Eric touches on payment schedules, permits, and whether they will supply project plans—because nothing says “I’m a professional” like a well-laid-out plan. So buckle up, listeners, because Eric G is here to make sure you don’t get burned when hiring your contractor!
Takeaways:
- Before hiring a contractor, make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured for everyone's safety.
- Always ask for clear, detailed written estimates to avoid nasty surprises during your project.
- It's crucial to verify that the contractor has expertise in the specific type of project you're undertaking.
- Checking their references and previous work can save you from hiring a 'sledgehammer contractor' disaster.
- Don't be shy to ask about their payment schedule and ensure it's clearly outlined in the contract.
- Make sure they are responsible for pulling all necessary permits to keep your project on the right side of the law.
To get your questions answered by Eric G give us a call in the studio at 833-239-4144 24/7 and Eric G will get back to you and answer your question and you might end up in a future episode of Around the House.
Thanks for listening to Ar
Published on 10 months ago