When you’re looking for a general contractor, hiring the wrong people can turn your project into a disaster and become a massive money drain. Shoddy work, overcharging, subcontracting…how can you tell if you’re bringing on a reputable company? According to Wisconsin Rapids, WI’s best building contractors at Eagle Construction Co Inc, there are a few steps you can take to ensure you make the right choice.

The experts share their top five tips below:

• Check Certifications & Licenses: A reputable building contractor will have industry certifications and be fully licensed and insured. Always check with the Better Business Bureau to see if past customers have filed complaints, and check out court records to see if they’ve been sued. If they have, avoid them at all costs!
• Don’t Go Too Cheap: The least expensive general contractor will likely do the shoddiest work. That doesn’t mean you need to go with the most expensive option, but never hire someone just because they have the lowest prices.
• Meet In Person: Meeting your building contractor in person can reveal things that you might not catch over the phone or email. Reputable companies won’t give an estimate without seeing the space in person, as it will be impossible to be accurate. Estimates without in-person visits are a red flag—they’re probably trying to squeeze extra money out of you.
• Avoid Subcontractors: Make certain that only your contractor and their own employees will be doing the work. Companies that rely on sub-contracting for construction jobs should not be considered reliable.
• Ask For References: Online reviews are great, but they are no substitute for past customers you can actually talk to. A long list of satisfied customers is one of the best signs of a general contractor you can trust.

For Wisconsin Rapids residents in search of a general contractor for anything from home additions to bathroom remodeling, Eagle Construction Co Inc has been the trusted local name since 1976. Visit their website to see some of their past work, or call them at (715) 424-1147 to talk to one of their experts about your next construction project.