Selecting Your Builder
there are many builders
selecting the right builder requires a little homework on your part. Make sure to check their business membership and references. Work with a contractor who understands what you want to accomplish.
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Start with a Pre-Screen Search
First and foremost,
begin your search using ServiceMagic's pre-screened network of home building contractors and service professionals
ServiceMagic maintains a rating system submitted by previous customers on various contractors and service professionals. You may view this rating system prior to selecting your contractor.
ServiceMagic will also guarantee the service.
That is the assurance you need to make sure the project is done correctly.
Start Here: Select Area of Service Needed
Make Sure of NARI or NAHB Membership
Investigate if your builder is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) or member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
- these Associations represent building and remodeling contractors, product manufacturers, and other industry specialists
- these associations are committed to enhancing the professionalism of the home building/remodeling industry
- members must
abide by a standard code of ethics:
view NARI code of ethics - NARI certification includes exams
and certification classes:
view certification requirements
More information about the NARI / NAHB:
contact the chapter within your area for information about a potential contractor
visit NARI.org | visit NAHB.org
Investigate Their Established Business:
Check the contractor's place of business, phone number, and other industry associations
- make sure they are valid establishments
- make sure the contractor is fully licensed with local and state governments, if required
- check with your local jurisdiction to ensure the license is valid and up-to-date do not base the contractor's license with a business card or verbal commitment
- lookup state, county and city governments for information on the contractor's license: www.statelocalgov.net
- make sure the contractor is fully insured and carries worker's compensation, liability insurance and property damage insurance ask to review the documentation
Check with your local Better Business Bureaus, building associations, and other consumer protection agencies:
view the Better Business Bureau
ensure that there is no outstanding complaints, fines, or penalties issued against the contractor if so, make sure the contractor provides a valid explanationyou can view more information about selecting your contractor:
from the national association of the remodeling industry
Interview the Contractor
Meet with the contractor face-to-face.
Be prepared to show drawings, specifications, and clippings from illustrations and products
Be detail in your specs
- This increases the likelihood that the contractor is the right person for the job.
- Be prepared to ask questions about the contractor and your project — note that you are looking for the person with best all-around service and qualification
Sample questions include:
— business establishment
— time frame
— operation policy
— certifications and permits
— insurance
— crew and use of subcontractors
— review of sample projects
— otherthe NARI has a complete list of interview questions:
view interview questionsNARI also provides a summary of "warning signs" during interviews:
click here
Check References
Request references from previous clients.
Contact these references to inquiry on the contractors work habits, completion schedule, clean up, and any other related issues or problems that the previous client may have experienced
sample questions to ask —
question:
did the home contractor complete the home contractor project within your satisfaction?question:
was the project completed on time?question:
did the contractor fulfill his or her part of the contract?question:
was the contractor easy to communicate with?question:
did the contractor and his crew showed up on time?question:
were you satisfied with the subcontractors that your contractor used?question:
would you recommend this contractor again without hesitation?
the NARI has a complete list of interview questions:
view interview questionsNARI also provides a summary of "warning signs" during interviews: click here
Home Building Steps
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