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Important Questions To Ask When Hiring Contractors Article
6. Important Questions to ask when Hiring Contractors
from:Hiring a contractor is not at all an easy job and is one where you cannot risk making mistakes. When you decide to hire a contractor, it is important that you have a clear idea about various aspects of the contractor including his experience, reputation and qualifications. There are only a few of the questions that you should at your contractor when you are contemplating whether to pick him for a project or not.
1. Does the contractor possess a license for your city/county/state?
Certain states make it compulsory for contractors to possess a license. However, other states simply accept job experience, academic credentials or even organization membership as substitutes for a license. If the contractor claims to be licensed, verify his claim by inquiring with the licensing board of your state. You can also verify the claim by visiting your state’s license boards website. Also, note that the requirements are not the same for all states; make sure you know whether the contractor had to pass a licensing exam or it was simply a matter of paying a fee.
2. Does the contractor hold any membership of any professional trade organizations?
Contractors who hold such memberships have strict guidelines to follow both in terms of their trade and ethics if they want to maintain their membership. Contractors who hold such membership are likely to be reputable and trustable.
3. Is the contractor well insured?
Plenty of states require contractors to maintain certain levels of insurance as a part of the conditions relevant to their license. You can find information about such aspects from the website of your state. Verify that the contractor that you are considering at least possesses general liability coverage, automobile coverage and workmen’s compensation coverage.
4. Does the contractor have a good knowledge of current requirements regarding building code?
It is important that your contractor has a thorough knowledge of building code requirements pertinent to your area. This is very essential as otherwise it may not be possible for you to meet the requirements to get permits.
5. Does the contract have a portfolio of his previous clients and references?
Ask your contractor whether he will provide you with the contact details of previous clients so that you can verify his reliability and the quality of the work he provides. If he has a portfolio of previous jobs go through it to have a look at what the contractor is actually capable of in terms of quality and efficiency.
6. How long has he been in the industry?
A contractor who has been in the business for quite a number of years is undoubtedly more reliable when compared to new comers. Hiring older contractors will provide you with less risk of unfinished work or sub-standard work.