In researching general contractors, it’s common to come across plenty of horror stories. Missed deadlines, failed inspections and pseudo-professionals who simply disappear half way through the project plague customers and give a bad reputation to the construction industry. While these individuals certainly teach us that caution is a necessity when choosing a general contractor, the good news is that, most building professionals are just that – professionals who value their customers, take pride in their work and make a concerted effort to maintain their reputation for excellence.

If you’re in the market for a home renovation or custom built home, avoid falling victim to horror stories by taking the time to carefully choose and communicate with your general contractor, staying involved in your project and ensuring that things are done the way you want.

Timing is Everything

The first step in doing this is timing when you approach a builder. It’s a good idea to have some basic ideas about where you’re planning to build, what you hope to achieve with the project and other detailed information. Approaching a contractor too soon often leads to less than accurate estimates that might be miles away from the ultimate cost to build.

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Next, research construction professionals to ensure they’re the right fit for your project. If you’re building a home, the guy who specializes in kitchen countertops and flooring isn’t the best fit for you. Alternately, if you’re remodeling one room in your home, it usually isn’t wise to hire a general contractor who specializes in building multi-million dollar estates. The right general contractor will have a strong network of sub-contractors who specialize in the areas you need assistance with and the ability to leverage their reputation to secure lower prices on necessary supplies. This is the best way to ensure you keep your project on budget, get the job done right and don’t encounter needless problems down the road.

Read Between the Lines

Before making your hiring decision, make sure that you understand the terms of the contract you’re signing. Your contract is legally binding, and it specifies what the builder will do for you as well as what they expect from you. Terms will include specifics of the project, costs, payment requirements, your warranty and other important details. If you question anything, ask about it, and never sign anything before all the terms are clear.

Stay in Communication

After you’ve hired your general contractor, keep the lines of communication open, and always be honest about what you’re hoping to accomplish. Your project manager is a professional but not a mind reader, so the more information you provide, the better the outcome will be.  Be very specific about structural plans, finishings, any concerns about sub-contractors and questions regarding construction.

Check Your List Twice

Once construction is complete, use one comprehensive inspection list to go through the home or rooms being renovated and make note of anything that needs attention. Ask your project manager to walk the project with you, and include even the smallest of details with regard to repairs or missed items. Go over the list with your general contractor, and come to an agreement regarding a timeline for any necessary changes.

Hiring a general contractor is an important decision, and taking the time to take it seriously goes a long way toward helping you ‘get it right’. Stay organized, pay attention to details and learn a little about the professionals you’re considering before making a hiring decision. This will help your project to go smoothly and the final outcome to be one you’re proud of.