Steps
Before Hiring A Contractor

Choosing a remodeling
contractor can be an overwhelming process, especially the first time.
The
more research you do the better the chance your project will run smoothly.
- Call the Maryland Home
Improvement Commission (MHIC) to determine if the contractor is licensed.
- Determine if the company
has any complaints with the MHIC.
- Find out how long the
company has been in business.
- Does the contractor
have an office phone, cell phone or pager so that he could be reached in the
event of an emergency?
- Obtain references and
actually call them.
- Visit the company's
previous projects to determine their quality of work.
- Make sure the contractor
has had experience with the type of work you want.
- Have an insurance certificate
mailed or faxed to you.
- Know that the company
should have liability, automotive and workers compensation insurance.
- Make sure you're comfortable
with the contractor's insurance limits.
- Call the company's
building material supplier to find out their payment history.
- Never pay anyone in
cash.
- Never give more than
one third of the total contract price as a deposit.
- Always get a written
contract.
- Know that you have
at least a one year warranty through the MHIC.
- According to Maryland
law, you have three days to cancel the contract, providing the work has not
begun.
- Look for business cards,
lettered shirts, truck lettering or anything else that adds credibility.
- Stay away from a contractor
who seems too pushy or uses intimidation tactics.
- Get at least two bids
on the same project so you can compare prices effectively.

Taylor
Made Custom Contracting, Inc :: Home