Selecting a Minneapolis Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
The 5 Critical Questions To Ask Before You Hire A Bathroom Contractor
Remodeling your bathroom is one of the best ways to improve the comfort of your home…and increase its value. And for most of us it’s not a do-it-yourself project. Bathroom remodeling is often the most difficult room to work on…turning the average homeowner into a bundle of nerves during the process.
As a homeowner, it’s not surprising to you that homes are sold primarily on kitchens and bathrooms, so getting the bathroom right is of paramount importance.
The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) understand that the remodeling process can be quite overwhelming and confusing. The NKBA offers these important tips to help homeowner create their new bathroom.
- Don’t do it yourself
- Do think about resale
- Don’t overspend
- Think about value over cost
- Pick a qualified professional installer
In selecting the right professional for your needs, ask these 5 questions…
1. Is the contractor licensed?
One of the first things you’ll want to find out is if the contractor is properly licensed, and how long have they been doing the work you require. But remember, licenses are not a mark of quality workmanship, I simply means they have fulfilled the minimum requirements of the trade—which is a good place to start
2. Do they specialize in bathrooms?
Simply put, all remodeling contractors are not the same. Different remodeling contractors bring different levels of quality, commitment, sincerity, and dedication to their work. And usually, even though a contractor can “do it all”, their true expertise is in one type of discipline. Don’t be shy in asking them if they specialize in bathrooms, and what percentage of their business is bathrooms. If they hesitate or don’t know they answer…you do, so find someone else!
3. What is there standing with the Better Business Bureau?
Most homeowners call the contractor if they have a concern or problem, and gibe them several chances to fix it. Only when a contractor shows a lack of concern or ability to solve the problem does it escalate where the BBB is contacted. The BBB can tell you if the contractor has a list of complaints. If he does, how many of them are unresolved? If he has unresolved complaints…obviously hire someone else!
4. Do they offer proof of insurance?
A good contractor will carry no less then $1,000,000 of coverage that will protect you if something goes wrong. If he is uninsured you will have no legal recourse. And make sure you don’t just hear it verbally…make sure you see a written, up-to-date copy of his insurance documents.
5. References: Can they supply you with 5 references
Even though you’ve heard this before, it might surprise you that most homeowners neglect this step. Instead they go with their “gut instinct”, which often times costs them money and peace of mind. Be sure to get at least 5 references and then call at least 3 of these to get their opinion. And when calling references be sure to ask specific questions, like:
• Did they get the work done on time?
• Did they communicate well—how long to get back to you?
• Did they always leave the house clean and tidy?
• Would they hire them again?
• Was there anything that didn’t go according to plan
These references are an invaluable tool, especially when you get a customer’s specific experience with the contractor you are considering,
Bonus Question # 1 Do they have a written warrant?
Don’t hesitate to demand to see their warranty in writing…and don’t hire them until they get you a copy of it. Some companies use warranties that refer to “other documents” that you have not seen or read. Look for a contractor who provides a written and easy to understand agreement…with no surprises.
Bonus Question # 2 How often is the final bill more then the bid?
This is a very revealing question. If they hesitate, or don’t really know the answer, that will show you something about there integrity. They know the answer; they just don’t want to disclose it.
