If you're planning to do home renovations, it’s important to find a dependable general contractor who can get the job done correctly and on time. You also have to ensure that you get along well with the contractor's team, as you will be working with them for quite some time. Here are some questions to ask during the decision-making process. 

What to Ask Before Hiring a General Contractor

How long have you been in this industry?

Find out the contractor's years of experience and the number of projects they’ve completed—the more the better. While general contractors often hire subcontractors, it’s crucial that they know how to do each aspect of the project themselves. That way, they can ensure that the work is done correctly. For the best results, hire a contractor that has worked on previous home projects similar to yours. 

Are you licensed?

If an unlicensed contractor abandons the project or fails to comply with local regulations, you'll be left to remedy the issues on your own. On the other hand, you can make a complaint to a local governing body should you receive unacceptable work from a state-licensed general contractor. Having a license also means the contractor has met a standard that the state deems to be professional.

Can you describe your work routine?

Remember that you will be interacting with your chosen contractor for some time. As such, ask about their work schedule and see if it meets your availability, or discuss how you can both adjust to make the project timetable work. 

Are you insured?

Accidents can and do happen, even if you're working with seasoned and skilled teams. However, a credible general contractor will have two types of insurance: workers’ compensation insurance and contractors’ liability insurance. The former protects the workers if they sustain injuries on the job, while the latter protects you in case they damage your property. Keep in mind that if you work with uninsured contractors, you may need to foot the bill for any damage they cause.

What's your timetable for this project?

If a general contractor can give you specific start and completion dates, this may mean they have a more organized work plan and, having completed similar projects, know how long each remodel takes. Also, home improvements can be an inconvenience that could keep you from using parts of your home. For instance, a kitchen renovation could mean you’ll have to dine out more. Having a timetable allows you to plan around these issues.

If you are renovating your home, trust the reliable general contractors at Vanderbilt Construction Services LLC. For over 30 years, they have been providing dependable residential renovations and construction services to St. Louis County, MO. This family-owned and -operated business delivers high-quality, budget-friendly solutions, including bathroom and kitchen remodeling. To request a free estimate, visit their website or call (314) 570-1908. Visit their Facebook page to get updates.