Hiring a general contractor is an important decision. Whether you're looking to undertake some home improvement or start a new construction project, hiring someone you can trust is crucial. Here are the top qualities of a competent contractor:
They Do What They Say They Will Do
A professional contractor will stick to a timeline and keep you up to date on the progress of your project. If you're unhappy with how your project is proceeding, this is not the person for you. A professional contractor will keep in constant contact with you to ensure that both of you are happy with the work.
They Are Licensed and Insured
Any reputable contractor needs to be licensed by the state where they operate their business. This ensures that their company, employees, and subcontractors are legally required to follow all safety codes and applicable labor laws.
They Take Responsibility for Their Work
A professional contractor will not leave work until the job is complete. It's not enough to say they'll do something; they must do it right! The project should flow nicely from beginning to end. Nothing should need to be corrected halfway through the job or after it is done.
They Are Creative
A professional contractor is creative and resourceful, coming up with a plan to get the job done even if money is tight. As your project progresses, they will be able to adjust the plan and make changes as necessary. They are not afraid to ask for help and will not be scared to admit when they would benefit by seeking outside assistance.
They Are Honest
A professional contractor will be upfront and honest with you throughout the project. If the project is going over budget, they will inform you right away so you can make an educated decision on how to proceed. They will be honest in assessing how long the project will take to complete.
They Take Time to Listen
A professional contractor will spend time with you before the project begins to ensure you are both on the same page. Such an action allows both of you to put your concerns and ideas forward, addressing them before they become issues that can be overlooked. The contractor will also listen as you provide feedback during the work, considering every comment and making adjustments if necessary.
They Communicate with You
A great contractor will keep you in the loop from beginning to end. They will give you a schedule of when they plan on starting and completing each step, letting you know how your money is being spent. They will also let you know if your expectations are changing. Remember that you do not want a contractor who is only interested in the bottom line. You want a contractor who wants to make sure your project is completed correctly and to your liking.
Hiring a professional contractor is an important decision. If you hire someone who doesn't have the qualities listed above, it can turn into a disaster that can cost you much more in the long run. Therefore, you should take your time to consider who qualifies as a good contractor. After all, you don't want to be left with an unfinished project and a hefty bill.