Proven positive track record, active license & insurance.
That depends on your current needs in a contractor. If it’s a job that requires permits, it’s important to hire someone liscensed and knowledgeable in the permitting process. Another important thing would have to be past customer reviews or testimonials and maybe even a better business ratting. Time in business, experience ect.
I think the licensing and insurance is a must have, no question about it. if you want to be a contractor you have to play by the rules, if your contractor is cheating on issurance, and licensing, he will probable be cheating you too. I would get references and try to look at previous jobs of similiar nature to make sure they are capable and competent. the and probable most important of all, you have to be comfortable with your contractor. if you just do not click after first couple meeting, you probable never will. you do not have to have dinner together or share war stories, but you should be able to articulate your vision and here your contractor reflect your thoughts in his own way. You are really forming a mini partnership, its you vision and capital and his or her skill and ability to make your vision a reality. so to me its the relationship.
If only one factor can be considered, it must be trust.
Check references. Your Contractor candidates should readily provide you with references from past customers. Also check their rating with the BBB, your local licensing board, and search their name online to see any and everything that pertains to them.
Replacement windows for your home should be energy star rated, preferably contain Argon Gas and be LowE as well.
When considering a home improvement company it is important to have references. Any company can be license, bonded and insured but references are key. Only trust a reputable company and ask for all information. Do not accept one or two references ask for a list and be sure to follow up with all clients on that list.
Don’t ask him for references, ask people you know if they know HIM. Ask your friends to refer you to companies that worked out for them.
Most importantly ask the contractor for his insurance agent to furnish you with a copy of their insurance certificate. Make sure it comes from the agent not from the contractor. Secondly, ask to for your contractor’s license number and check with the state to see if the license is up to date. In New Jersey the license is known as a Home Improvement Contractor’s License. These licenses are monitored by The Department of Community Affairs. The next step is to ask your contractor for referrals from similar projects completed recently. If possible visit at least one project so you can get a real understanding of what your project will look like when complete.
Make sure you select a company within a short driving distance to the project. The company should be responsible for providing exceptional service before, during and after the sale.
Make sure you DO NOT pick the cheapest company. “You get what you pay for”.
Make sure you know the product manufacturers warranty’s.
Some products do not carry a factory warranty unless installed by an Authorized Dealer. Make sure the company you select can satisfy the requirement.
Make sure the company will be there to provide warranty service.
Current licences and insurance(liability & workmen comp insurance)
History of the company and reviews
Products & installation process
Make sure you hire a qualified contractor licensed in his or her area of expertise. If you are doing a larger project the general contractor will pull the main permit and his mechanical subs and electrician are usually responsible for their own. Ask the potential contractors for references and if they have a project management system in place and if they will provide you with a written workmanship guarantee upon completion of your project. Most of all read your proposal and make sure all of your questions are answered before signing it A qualified contractor will specify everything they are doing. A good rule of thumb i use to inform my clients is that if it is not on the proposal, it is not included… Make sure you get a detailed computer generated proposal. I hope this helps