The Value of a General Contractor
Hiring the right contractor for your job is the key to having an enjoyable building experience and an end product that you can enjoy for years to come. Regardless of the size of your project, it is essential to choose a contractor who is trustworthy and has the unique expertise to make your vision a reality.
Home renovation and construction projects can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the project scope. Larger projects typically require the skillful orchestration of multiple trades and subcontractors.
The best general contractors have high standards for craftsmanship and work only with reliable partners. In addition, they respect your space by keeping it as neat as possible, and they have the necessary experience and foresight to manage all of the logistical details that come with construction projects.
By taking the time upfront to evaluate a contractor’s credentials, plan an effective consultation, and consider the future value of your project, you can hire a contractor who will be your trusted parter throughout this exciting process!
Evaluating a Contractor’s Credentials
There are three things that a legitimate contractor will be able to provide to you:
- Proof of Insurance, which shows that the contractor has the necessary liability insurance for your project.
- A Current General Contractor’s License, which proves that the contractor has passed the requirements of the state’s examining board. You can verify a general contractor’s license by visiting the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.
- A Standard Contract, which will help you understand the contractor’s expectations and payment structure.
Together, these documents — all with the same business name — show that the contractor is running a legitimate operation. It is a major red flag if any of the documents do not bear the same name. In addition, if you choose to move forward with a contractor, all payments should be directed to the legal entity listed on the license, certificate of insurance, and contract.*This is not legal advice. For legal questions regarding hiring a contractor, please consult an attorney.
Planning an Effective Consultation
The in-person consultation is a perfect time to get a sense of whether a general contractor is a good fit for your project. But before you schedule an initial consultation, it’s important to do some planning to make the most of that time.
If you are requesting a remodel of an existing space, a few quick sketches can be invaluable in conveying what you want the project to accomplish. In addition, reference photos from magazines or organized on a Pinterest or Houzz board can help the general contractor understand your vision.
When a contractor does an initial walk-through of your property, it is a two-way interview. You are interviewing the contractor, and the contractor is also interviewing you.
As the property owner, you need to ensure that the contractor is trustworthy and that their expertise matches the needs of your project. At the same time, the contractor is assessing the scope of your project and the skills required to determine whether the project is a good fit for their company.
Cost does not Equal Value
Traditional thinking regarding general contractors suggests that you should always get three quotes before hiring a contractor because doing so will help you find the least expensive company.
When it comes to custom remodels and builds, there is typically a direct correlation between cost and quality. A cheaper contractor may save you money in the short term, but you will likely end up paying more over time due to poor craftsmanship, shortcuts, and poor material choices.
On the other hand, a more expensive contractor may cost much more up front, but they will be able to skillfully coordinate your and deliver a result that immediately adds value to your home and lasts a lifetime.
- *This is not legal advice. For legal questions regarding hiring a contractor, please consult an attorney.
