It’s all about hiring the right general contractor for a construction project. It can be as serious as selecting a doctor or a spouse. However, it’s not a life-or-death decision or a life-long commitment. But it does affect two things that are very close to your heart: your home and your wallet.
We all have home improvement ideas dancing in our heads that we’d love to start working on. So, you need an expert contractor with mighty tools, knowledge, experience, and a skilled crew to make them alive.
Get to know potential contractors by asking these questions
1) How long have you been in business?
Experience matters. The more projects they’ve done, the more they will know about how to do yours. Look for a local business with at least five years of experience.
2) May I see examples of your work?
Check references, previous works especially for projects that are similar to yours. Contractors should be proud to show you projects and may even contact a past customer who would be willing to let you see work done in their home.
3) Who will purchase the fixtures, materials, etc.?
If you want to do the shopping for things like faucets, tile, cabinet hardware, etc., be specific about who is responsible for delivering the items on time and who will pay for them. Your contractor may have connections with suppliers who can save you money.
4) How long will it take? And when can you start?
Your contractor may give you an excellent turnaround timeline, but if they won’t be available to start until next year, that’s another story. Be clear about expectations. And, as a rule, add about eight weeks to your actual completion date to keep your frustration level low.
5) How many other projects will you be doing while you work on mine?
It’s great to know that your contractor is popular and has steady work, but coinciding projects can hamper your timeline. Make sure they aren’t biting off more than they can chew.
6) Are you licensed within the state?
Not all states require licensing for contractors. Requirements in your area can range from simple registration to detailed qualifications. If your state requires licensing, make sure your contractor’s license is up to date.
7) Will you take care of all the needed building permits?
Something as simple as adding a deck requires a building permit. Your contractor should be well-versed in all permits needed for building in your area and be willing to get them for you.
8) Will you be hiring subcontractors and suppliers? Who will be the project manager?
Once you establish a relationship with your contractor, it can be a little disappointing when someone else shows up to do the work. You can expect the general contractor in Delhi NCR to oversee the project, but it’s good to know who you will see regularly.
9) How do you expect to be paid?
Payment plans vary by contractor. 10% upfront is reasonable, with three payments of 25% during the project and a final payment of 15% once finished and approved. Confirm what is expected and when. Never pay the entire amount in the beginning. You might even ask if they can provide any other financing options.
10) Can I get a detailed contract?
A written contract should include:
- A detailed description of the work to be completed and the price of each item.
- Payment schedules.
- Anticipated start date and completion date.
- Any guarantees, who is responsible for them, and how long they are valid.
- Specified policies for how change orders will be handled (a change in plans due to unforeseen structural problems or extended delivery times are common items to include).
- Signatures of both parties.
After researching all the prospects, ask yourself who makes you feel the most comfortable or confident? It’s good to work with someone with whom you feel free to ask questions and voice any concerns during the span of construction. Choose a general contractor in Delhi after analyzing these aspects.