Checklist for Choosing a Builder
Choose your builder carefully. During the interview, include the following questions from this easy-to-print checklist:
Licensed General Contractor
Most states require a license and worker’s compensation insurance. General contractors are also responsible for overseeing the quality of work and materials of subcontractors they hire, as well as paying them.
Type of work
Do they handle your kind of project?
Availability
Can they work with your schedule?
References, clients, and previous jobs
Ask for references from clients. Call them and ask about work quality, meeting schedules, client relationships, willingness to address problems quickly and effectively. Ask for photos of previous jobs and, if possible, meet with builders on their current job sites.
Chemistry and personality
Pay close attention to how well you communicate with each prospective contractor. A good relationship with your general contractor is key to the success of completing your house successfully.
Bidding
Select three candidates and request a firm bid from each. They will need a complete set of plans with specifications for things like large appliances, fixtures, floorings, roofing material, HVAC equipment and materials.
Legal issues
Before signing a contract with your chosen contractor, make sure he or she is licensed, bonded, and insured for worker’s compensation, public liability, and property damage.
Balance
The lowest bid may not be the lowest cost in the long run. Find a balance between the best bid and the
best contractor in terms of credentials, references
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