A general contractor is responsible for supervising and coordinating the construction of a building project. The general contractor works with a team of subcontractors to ensure that each stage of the construction process is completed on time and within budget. In most cases, the general contractor is hired by the owner of the property, although in some instances, the contractor may be hired by the architect or engineer.
In addition to managing the construction site, the general contractor is also responsible for ordering materials, securing permits, and scheduling inspections. Because they play such a vital role in the construction process, general contractors must thoroughly understand all aspects of building. By working with a qualified and experienced general contractor, you can be confident that your construction project will be completed on time and within budget.
Now, when interviewing potential general contractors, there are several key questions you should ask to gauge whether they are the right fit for the job. In this post, we shall highlight the top 10 questions to ask before hiring a general contractor.
1. Are you licensed?
Asking if a contractor is licensed is one of the most important questions you can ask before hiring them. In most states, contractors must be licensed to perform work on your home. A license ensures that the contractor has the necessary skills and training to do the job correctly. It also protects you from liability if something goes wrong during the project. Furthermore, many insurance companies will only provide coverage if a licensed contractor performed the work. As such, hiring an unlicensed contractor could put your entire investment at risk.
2. What’s your experience with such kinds of projects?
In addition to asking if a contractor is licensed, you should also inquire about their experience. Ideally, you want to hire a contractor with extensive experience with similar projects. They should be able to provide examples of previous work that they have completed, and they should be able to answer any questions you have about the process
Finally, you should get a written estimate from the contractor before hiring them. This estimate should include a detailed breakdown of the cost of labor and materials. By asking this key question, you can ensure that you hire a qualified and reputable general contractor for your next home improvement project.
3. Do you have insurance?
Another important question to ask before hiring a general contractor is whether or not they have insurance. General contractors should carry both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability insurance protects you from financial responsibility if the contractor damages your property. Workers’ compensation insurance protects you from being liable for medical expenses if a worker is injured while working on your property. If a contractor does not have insurance, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries that might happen during the project.
4. Do you have a list of references?
The general contracting company, AFS General Contracting say you should always ask for a list of references when hiring a general contractor. These references should be homeowners who have used the contractor’s services in the past. You should contact these references and ask them about their experience working with the contractor. In addition, you should ask if they were satisfied with the quality of work and if the project was completed on time and within budget.
5. What’s the payment schedule?
Another important question to ask before hiring a general contractor is the payment schedule. You should never pay the full amount upfront before work has begun. Instead, you should agree on a payment schedule that allows you to make progress payments as the work is completed. This payment schedule should be outlined in the contract before work begins. How your contractor answers this question can help you determine whether you will be paying only for work that has been completed and that you are not at risk of losing your money if the project is not finished.
6. What is the estimated completion date?
In addition to asking about the payment schedule, you should also ask about the estimated completion date. This date should be included in the contract before work begins. It is important to note that delays can occur because the estimated completion date is just an estimate. However, having an estimated completion date in the contract can ensure that the contractor is held accountable for finishing the project on time.
7. Who will be working on the project?
When hiring a general contractor, you should also ask who will be working on the project. The contractor should have a team of skilled workers experienced in completing similar projects. In addition, the contractor should be able to provide you with the names and contact information of the workers who will be working on your project.
8. What is the warranty or guarantee?
Another important question to ask before hiring a general contractor is the warranty or guarantee. The contractor should offer a warranty or guarantee on their work. This warranty should cover any defects in workmanship. In addition, the contractor should also offer a satisfaction guarantee. This satisfaction guarantee should allow you to get your money back if you are not satisfied with the quality of work.
9. What happens if the project goes over budget?
If the project goes over budget, the contractor should be willing to negotiate a new payment schedule. The contractor should not ask you to pay more than what was originally agreed upon. In addition, the contractor should be willing to work with you to find ways to reduce the project’s cost. By asking this question, you can ensure that you are not taken advantage of if the project costs more than expected.
10. What is your policy on change orders?
A change order is a request from the homeowner to change the scope of work. For example, if you decide that you want to add an additional room to the project, this would be considered a change order. Change orders can also occur if the contractor discovers that additional work is needed to complete the project. The contractor should have a policy on change orders outlined in the contract. This policy should state how much notice the contractor needs and how much the change will cost. By asking this question, you can ensure that you know the costs associated with making changes to the project.
Bottom Line
When hiring a general contractor, it is important to ask various questions. These questions can help you learn more about the contractor and their business. In addition, these questions can help you ensure that you are hiring a reputable contractor who will do a good job on your project. By asking these 10 questions, you can be sure that you are hiring the best possible contractor for your project.
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