You’ve been thinking of remodeling your home for a while and it’s finally time to take the plunge! But how do you choose a remodeler for your project? Whether you’re updating your master bathroom or investing in a kitchen remodel, it’s important to work with a trustworthy team of professionals. However, it can sometimes be difficult to tell who is and isn’t trustworthy.
That’s why we have some tips for you to consider as you choose a remodeler to work on your home. A remodel is a significant investment. It’s important to choose the right contractor for the job. We hope these tips will help you navigate the search.
Stay Local
If you’re hunting for a remodeler, you should choose one who’s local. There are several reasons why this is a good idea. First of all, choosing a local remodeler means choosing somebody with roots in your community. Word of mouth is a big deal and, even in large cities, it’s not too difficult to find people who have worked with a specific company or know family and friends who did. Online reviews can be paid for or removed, but word still travels. Local remodelers are invested in building strong relationships with their communities. They won’t cut corners or leave work unfinished the way a major company with satellite offices and shareholders might.
Another reason to choose a remodeler who’s local? Their familiarity with local building codes and guidelines. Building codes vary from place to place. They often change from year to year too. Most structural work or footprint expansions require permits. A local contractor will stay up-to-date on these changes. Their knowledge can save you money in the long run; they’ll make sure all their work is up to code the first time around.
Verify Qualifications
In the search to choose a remodeler, local knowledge is useful, but there are other elements to consider. The best remodeling contractor for your project will be licensed and insured. Remember to verify this as you’re interviewing contractors and soliciting bids for your remodel. It may sound like a no-brainer, but it can be easy to forget this step as you start to get excited about finishing your basement or remodeling your bathrooms.
It can also be helpful to make sure the remodeler you’re interested in has a clean bill of health. In other words, when it’s time to choose a remodeler, make sure you choose one who doesn’t have any complaints against them! You can do some research by checking with accrediting bodies like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, a.k.a. NARI, or even the Better Business Bureau. If the contractor you’re thinking of comes up with red flags, pay attention and don’t dismiss them.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to investigate your remodeler’s certifications too. There are many aspects of a successful remodel. Between green design, lead safety, design trends, new products, and accessible or universal design it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. A good remodeler will educate you on these topics and demonstrate their industry knowledge without making you feel foolish or ignorant. Look for certifications on your remodeler’s website and don’t be afraid to ask them questions about these and other topics to help make your decision.
Check References
When it’s time to choose a remodeler, you want to be sure they can do more than talk. It’s tempting to go along with somebody who has an easy-going demeanor and promises you the moon. The question is whether or not they can deliver. Most reputable remodelers will showcase completed projects on their website. Looking at those projects is one way to check their work. It’s a good first step, but there’s more that you can do to make sure your potential remodeler is on the up-and-up. Check reviews on Google and other platforms to further educate yourself.
It’s also smart to ask your remodeler if they can provide you with references. Established contractors will likely have a list of clients they’ve done work for in the past. These clients can speak to the quality of work that a remodeler does. If the person you’re interested in working with doesn’t have a list of references, that can sometimes be a red flag.
Companies or contractors who are just getting started may not have a list, but if the remodeler you’re talking to has been in business for a decade and can’t connect you with references, you might want to reconsider. A remodel is a significant investment. Make sure that you choose a remodeler who respects that and doesn’t waste your time.
If you’re searching for a remodeler in the Colorado Springs area, give Springs Home Improvement a try. We have a history of quality work and satisfied customers. Whether you’re looking for a bathroom remodel, a kitchen overhaul, or a finished basement, we have the expertise to make your dream remodel into a reality. Choose a remodeler who is local and experienced; choose to work with Springs. Reach out to us about scheduling a complimentary consultation today.
