When it comes to hiring the right kitchen contractor, there’s a lot that can go wrong along the way.
The team at Bright Builders understands the unique challenges faced by people who are looking for a kitchen contractor. You’re likely looking for a cost-effective kitchen remodel, but you also don’t want to sacrifice quality.
You’ve undoubtedly heard nightmare stories about kitchen remodels gone wrong, but there’s nothing to worry about if you’re able to follow this list of tips to avoid hiring the wrong contractor.
Screen Your Kitchen Contractors
The first step in avoiding hiring the wrong kitchen contractor is to screen kitchen contractors. Start this process by conducting a quick online search to find local kitchen contractors. In addition, you can use word of mouth referrals as a launch pad for finding local kitchen contractors. It’s important to remember that not all kitchen contractors are the same, and not all kitchen contractors are going to work out best for you – even if they worked out for someone you know. That’s why you can’t stop with just finding the local kitchen contractor with the most reviews….
It is important, though, to check websites and social media pages for testimonials, reviews, photo galleries of projects, and other details that point to the level of professionalism you could expect from the contractor.
As part of screening kitchen contractors in your area, be sure to contact each one and ask some general questions. For instance, you could inquire about the contractor’s length of time in the kitchen remodel business; the average cost of a kitchen remodel; and how many clients the contractor is currently working with. Asking these questions can help you find out which kitchen contractor(s) are professionals you feel are right for the job.
Make Sure They’re Vetted
Before you commit to hiring a kitchen contractor, though, you still want to make sure you’re going to be working with a vetted professional. There are a few things you can look for during this step. For instance, you can check to see if the kitchen contractors you’re interested in are bonded and insured. While bond and insurance are not the same, both instruments are important when it comes to protecting your best interest. Many kitchen contractors will be both bonded and insured. Next, if your area requires licensing, you’ll want to ensure that any kitchen contractor you’re interested in is properly licensed. Check to make sure that they have current, up to date licensing!
Another great way to see if your prospective kitchen contractor is vetted is to check their professional affiliations. For instance, they may be part of your local chamber of commerce, Better Business Bureau, or an industry organization that requires membership.
The last part of checking to see if a kitchen contractor is properly vetted is to ask for references.
Check References
Just getting references from a kitchen contractor isn’t enough. You’ll want to be sure and go the extra step and check those references! When you contact references, you can ask if they would recommend the kitchen contractor you’re researching. You can also ask questions about their general work to see if specific contractors are right for you.
Keep in mind that contractors can provide references that list only their most satisfied clients, friends and family. It is worth digging deeper than just sending a few emails or making a couple of phone calls if you want insight into their true character and reputation.
Another approach is to ask your potential contractor for references from their last 3 projects. These references are likely to be less biased and can give you a more realistic idea about how satisfied is their average costumer.
Look for Licensing
Looking for licensing in a kitchen contractor is important. Your geographic location might require licensing, so if a kitchen contractor wasn’t registered and up to date, then you should definitely see that as a red flag.
While unlicensed contractors my be able to provide lower prices, it can be riskier in the long term. For instance, if you hire an unlicensed contractor and he falls off a ladder while doing work at your business or house, you’re liable.
Some contractors don’t have license because they are just too lazy to get one but some of them could be real criminals. They may just take your money without completing the project or even steal from your property.
Check for Insurance and Bonding
What happens if a contractor turns out to be a disaster? If you want a reliable kitchen contractor, you’ve got to be sure that they have insurance and bonding. This is a very important part of being sure that you are getting a highly professional and honest contractor for your kitchen project. An uninsured contractor will also try to cut corners on the work because they don’t have to adhere to building codes.
Get a Quote
Once you’ve found one or maybe a few contractors who’ve shown to be professional, vetted, and highly recommended, the next thing to do is get a quote. When a kitchen contractor is working on your quote, they should ask specific questions related to your project. In addition, you should expect to receive a detailed and written quote. When comparing quotes, going with the cheapest isn’t always the best. A true professional probably won’t low ball you, so be sure that you’re paying close attention to the finer points of the quote. Also, be sure to ask if the contract will also be in writing. A written contract is crucial for your protection. If the contractor doesn’t complete their end of the deal, you want to be sure you’re covered.
Finding the wrong kitchen contractor can happen quickly when these tips aren’t thought out. When choosing a kitchen contractor, it’s important to work towards finding a highly professional service that will deliver your project beautifully. While a professional might cost a bit more, the end result will be one you’ll love for years to come.
