If you want to save time, money, and energy, have a clear plan in place to choose the right general contractor in Monterey, CA. Ensure that you narrow your top picks to companies that handle the type of renovations you need.
How To Find Recommendations For A General Contractor
The first step in searching for the best remodeling contractor for home renovations is knowing where to look. Take advantage of your network of connections for some experienced and personalized recommendations.
Besides questioning your friends and family, ask your local community for some recommendations.
- Trade Organizations
- Realtor
- Hardware Store
- Real Estate Attorney
While local connections often yield better referrals from people who are established in the area, using online resources with verified reviews is also helpful to investigate further before deciding to go forward with your project.
How To Hire A General Contractor
You’ll want to hire a licensed and bonded contractor. However, you should also check their qualifications, review any available warranties, and discuss the project timeline before choosing a final candidate.
Check Their Builder’s License & Insurance Coverage
It’s always best to ensure that your contractor’s license is active and in good standing. Verify that the contractor you want to hire is listed with the California Contractors State License Board and that their information matches what you were told. A legitimate contractor in California will also be bonded and have an adequate general liability insurance policy to protect their customers in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
A Comprehensive Warranty Shows The Contractor Stands Behind Their Work
A good general contractor should provide you with a warranty that is clearly written in a contract or proposal before any work has begun. A well-drafted warranty should be fully comprehensive, given the scope of the project. The warranty should state the specific problems and remedies for which the party may be responsible, how the issue will be resolved, and how long the builder’s warranty will last. Pay special attention to sections that indicate what subsequent actions you may take that could void certain parts of the warranty.
Make Sure Your Project Timeline Fits In Their Schedule
Have a clear idea of when you would realistically need your project completed. If you have a remodeling project with a strict deadline, your options for a general contractor may be more limited, and your search should begin as soon as possible. If your timeline is more open, you will have an easier time working with your contractor to fit into each other’s schedules. It’s always a good idea to add extra time to any estimates in case something unexpected comes up.
General Contractor Checklist
Here’s a helpful checklist to consider when choosing a general contractor:
- Check out their portfolio.
- Ask for references from their recent projects.
- Verify builder’s license.
- Examine proof of insurance.
- Interview in person each of your top three options.
- Ensure a proposal includes all anticipated costs.
- Understand their change order policy.
- Establish a mutually agreed upon payment schedule.
- Review warranty.
- Make sure you have a clear line of communication and point of contact.
Following this checklist can save you a lot of headaches, time, and money.
Top General Contractor In Monterey
At Cypress Design & Build, we are a licensed and bonded general contractor that delivers on time and exceeds expectations. We have all the qualifications you could want and will supply any information you require to help you make an informed decision about who you want to work on your project. Contact us today to discuss your home remodeling needs near Monterey, CA.
