How Do You Choose The Right Decking Contractor?
In a way, contractors are a lot like lawyers.
Just how many lawyer jokes are you aware? Lots, probably. (Well known: "What do you call fifty lawyers at the bottom of the ocean? An excellent start.") Lawyers are most likely probably the most maligned sets of professionals out there, although it's much more likely that almost all attorneys are courteous, professional, and ethical in their dealings. When was the last time you actually met a truly evil lawyer?
Contractors suffer exactly the same fate. Most contractors are good at what they do, charge a fair price and get the work done reasonably quickly. But we all know the typical stereotype: Slovenly, unwashed men desperately looking for a better way to keep their pants from drooping too lower in the back, who show up late and leave without nailing so much as an individual board. It's hard on the market for a contractor. It's even harder for contractors who focus on decking, since decks are most homeowners' idea of the final touch on their dream homes.
But some contractors, like most lawyers, are friendly and fair within their interactions with clients, there are some bad apples out there. It's important for consumers to learn how exactly to spot those apples before signing a contract. Below are a few pointers on selecting the right decking contractor:
Check review sites like Angie's List. THE WEB has exposed a universe of information for the discriminating consumer. Angie's List functions by region, allowing members to examine contractors in all 50 states. If it is time and energy to hire a decking contractor, starting your search at an assessment site could net you some valuable information. Keep this in mind throughout your search - it could make the difference between putting a decking contractor on the "yes" list or the "maybe" list.
Research the relevant local codes and regulations yourself before you begin your search. Decks are simply like outbuildings - their construction must abide by a set of codes and standards that differs based on location. Your new decking project could be limited by zoning laws in size, height or nearness to the road. Check these laws before calling around, and make sure your potential decking contractor's knowledge of the situation.
See if he'll provide a free estimate. Some estimates can't be given for free. A plumber, for example, may have to use specialized equipment to find a leak, which can mean big money. But decks aren't like that - it's relatively simple to visualize what sort of deck will look, what kind of work will be involved with its construction, and how long it will take to build. In You can find out more won't do that for free, that could be enough reason not to hire him. You may also use your experience in getting the estimate to measure the contractor's professionalism: Is he promptly? Does he respond to your questions with polite courtesy? Does he use hard-sell or strong-arm tactics to get you to bring him up to speed? It is now time to weed out potential troublemakers.
Require local references or provide pictures of decks he's built in the past. In the event that you were hiring a fresh employee in the office, you'd want to see a resume or perhaps a portfolio. This will be no different. Ask your contractor: What's he done before? Does he have any letters of support or recommendation from his past customers? (His website could be good place to find these.) If his experience in decking projects is limited, is he willing to lower his price?
Learn if he's insured. This may be the most crucial question you ask. Can be your decking contractor's company insured against claims covering worker's compensation or property damage? Think about personal liability in the event of accidents? Get the name of his carrier and agency, and create a call to be sure.
Should you have kids or pets, be sure to have them around through the estimate. They're sure to be around whenever your decking contractor is doing the work, so make sure he knows they're going to be a fixture. Of course, you don't want them getting back in his way - someone could get hurt, and it's important for you to be considered a courteous client. But if he responds negatively, that may be a sign of potential conflict down the road.
Make certain the contract has contact information, a payment schedule, a work schedule and total costs. Obviously, you'll want to go over the contract thoroughly prior to making the hire, but it's important to make sure it contains this information.