Spring into Home Renovations: Tips for Choosing a Reliable Contractor

Written by Utica National Personal Lines Team | May 9, 2024 12:38:10 PM

Spring is a perfect time to take on outdoor renovations, such as landscaping, deck building, or fence installation. However, before you dust off your outdoor tools and start hammering away, it's essential to prioritize safety and choose a reliable contractor.

If your spring home renovation project requires professional assistance, it's essential to choose a contractor who can deliver quality work. Here are some tips for selecting a reputable contractor:

Do your research: Take the time to research potential contractors thoroughly. Look for contractors with a good reputation in your community, positive reviews, and a track record of delivering satisfactory results. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors, and check online resources, such as contractor directories or review websites.
Check credentials and licenses: Ensure that the contractor you are considering is licensed (where required by state), bonded, and insured. A valid license indicates that the contractor has met the necessary requirements and has the expertise to perform the work.
Ask for references: Request references from the contractor and follow up on them. Contact previous clients to inquire about their experience working with the contractor, the quality of work, timeliness, and professionalism. This can provide you with insights into the contractor's reliability and reputation.
Obtain multiple quotes: Get written quotes from multiple contractors for your project. Compare the quotes, including the cost, timeline, and scope of work, to make an informed decision. Be wary of any quotes that are significantly lower than others, as it may indicate poor quality work or hidden costs.
Get a written contract: Once you have selected a contractor, ensure that you have a written contract in place that includes all the details and expectations of the project.

When deciding on a contractor, its important you feel confident in them and in the work they deliver. Renovations can be costly, and while you’re most likely eager to start your next project, you want to make sure it’s done right the first time.

Source: “Tips to find a reliable and trustworthy general contractor.” Better Business Bureau, https://www.bbb.org. Accessed 29 April. 2024.

This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that the member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group are not providing legal advice, or any other professional services or advice. Utica shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information. You are encouraged to consult an attorney or other professional for advice on these issues.

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