FGC Construction

The subject of how to choose the best contractor for your project is of critical importance. It is probably the most important decision you’ll have to make with regards to any substantial remodeling adventure. Beyond the appeal of low or too-good-to-be-true quotes, an alert homeowner can find clues and telltale indications relating to the remodeling company being considered.  Here are a few pointers to help you choose the right contractor.

1. Contract: educate yourself about what a complete and proper Home Improvement Contract should contain (in California, use the CSLB website). Ask the contractor for all his contract papers and compare to what’s required. You will often finds remarkable short flaws in what the contractor’s contract looks like to what it needs to be. Note that these state mandated contract elements are there to protect you, the consumer.

2. Never work with anyone that requires substantial sums ‘before commencement’ of anything (unless you are ordering a custom material, like windows). A good payment schedule is linked to various stages of work, not commencement of them.

3. If the contractor is indeed professional, experienced and competent and has been doing this for a while – what does he have to show for it? Does he have referrals, pictures of his work (Are these pictures of projects these contractors actually did or are these pictures off the internet, manufacturer’s brochures and so forth? A keen observer should be able to tell), any complains on his license?

4. How detailed and complete is the Scope of Work? Ensure all labor and material is mentioned in detail.

A proactively cautious homeowner that is diligent and careful about any hiring decision, will most likely end up content in regards to the project than those owners that are not.

Don't Forget...

A good contractor will tour your home and ask questions to find out exacty what you want and how you want it. Don't assume they know what you want.  Make sure your contract is detailed enough to cover the entire scope of work your seeking.

Another item which is usually overseen is making sure the contractor really is the person he states he is. Check the driver's license of your contractor before signing the contract. It will provide assurance that you're doing business with the person you think you're doing business with. If the individual claims he works directly for he contractor, make sure you and the contractor take the time to meet each other.  

When a Bargain is No Bargain

Anyone quoting an exceptionally low price without putting it in a detailed contract.

Immediate availability. Reputable contractors typically aren't that quickly available.

An overconfident, "Can Do" attitude that doesn't correspond with the complexity of the project.

When a contractor claims he could literary 'Do it All'.

When the individual handling the money isn't the one doing the work. That spells all kinds of trouble. Including the possibility that he won't pay the actual tradesman, who could then walk off the job and leave you stranded.