|
|
|
|
|
By Kathy Wilson
Remodeling a bathroom can be expensive and it can take quite awhile -- it'll seem especially long if you don't have a shower for a couple weeks -- so be sure you find the right contractors to do the work.
Asking the proper questions when you interview contractors can mean the difference between finding a contractor you trust and enjoy working with – vs. a long and trying few weeks.
Does the contractor have the goods?
First and foremost, is your bathroom remodeling contractor licensed and insured? Check it out with your local licensing board, and ask contractors for proof of insurance -- they should be able to produce it for you readily.
Ask about the schedule
Get a written schedule of the construction tasks the contractor intends to perform. This will help avoid disagreements over how long it will take to finish the job.
Do they stand by their work?
Make sure the work performed will be backed up by an expressed warranty. Any worthwhile contractor is going to want to make sure you are happy, and that any repairs that need to be done are taken care of promptly.
How easy are changes?
Does the contractor bidding on your bathroom remodeling job have a change-order policy? If you change your mind about an element of your bathroom later on, what is the policy for making those changes, and how would the contractor handle them?
When do they expect payment?
A contractor will ask for a certain percentage of the estimate up front, and then ask for payments for the remainder as the job is completed. Make sure you know how much is expected, and when, and that it's put in writing.
How do they handle disputes?
Find out how your contractor handles disagreements, and make sure to put a dispute resolution clause into the contract. Disagreements during any bathroom remodeling job are the primary cause of pricey lawsuits, and inconvenient unfinished jobs. Agree on how to "disagree."
Will your contractor 'lien' on you?
If the contractor bidding the work has a policy of placing a lien on a home if invoices go unpaid, you should know this ahead of time. The last thing you want to happen during a bathroom remodeling is to lose your home! Make sure they are willing to put a clause into a contract called a "waiver of lien" to protect yourself, and your home.
Can they put you in touch with ex-clients?
Watch out for contractor who is not willing to give you at least three solid references. Ask for references, and check them all out before agreeing to sign a contract. Ask them what they liked and disliked about the contractor.
Interview at least three different contractors when taking bids on bathroom remodeling, and take notes during each contractor interview, using the notes later to help you choose the right candidate.
Finally -- and importantly -- remember to try to choose someone you get along with, as any remodeling can be a stressful time.
Kathy Wilson is a home and garden writer, author and consultant and is the home decorating expert for LifetimeTV.com. Visit her for more home and garden ideas at TheBudgetDecorator.com and TheGardenGlove.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|